Balmain Shoulder Bags

French

From the voluminous skirts of the post-World War II “New Look” favored by Hollywood icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich to the sleek, skinny jeans seen on Nicki Minaj, Kid Cudi and every Kardashian, clothes from the House of Balmain have long been mainstays in celebrity wardrobes.

The son of a dressmaker and a drapery salesman, Pierre Balmain was born in 1914 in southeastern France and formed an interest in fashion at an early age. His mother wanted her son to be an architect — but the principles of design and structure Balmain learned in his brief studies at the École des Beaux Arts served him well throughout his career.

Balmain founded his now-iconic label in 1945. Alongside fellow couture titans Christian Dior and Hubert de Givenchy, Balmain’s postwar take on luxe dressing featured bell-shaped skirts falling from slender waists, structured jackets over sheath day dresses and embellishments like fur trim; he called the look “Jolie Madame.” The Duchess of Windsor was an early fan, prompting an aristocratic following.

Balmain was among the first to offer French looks to the American market. Since Pierre Balmain’s death in 1982, the design reins have been handed to luminaries such as Oscar de la Renta and Olivier Rousteing, an alum of Roberto Cavalli who was installed as creative director at the label in 2011.

Today’s Balmain has more in common with the master’s original haute couture than you might expect: sharply tailored blazers that nip in at the waist, delicate stilettos and ultra-feminine evening dresses are wardrobe basics for the 21st-century woman, too. Lovers of couture history will also prize the fluid, easy sketches from the master’s own hand they’ll find on offer here, while fashionistas clamor for the brand’s t-shirts, military-style jackets and skinny jeans.

Whether you’re a colonel in Rousteing’s “glamour army” or you fancy yourself a “Jolie Madame,” a Balmain piece — from the 1960s or even last season — will add a bold, sexy note to your look. Daytime or night, Balmain feels right now.

Find vintage Balmain dresses, skirts, shoes and other garments and accessories on 1stDibs.

Designer: Balmain

BALMAIN black 2017 CROCODILE TAIL Clutch Bag

$2,000

BALMAIN black 2017 CROCODILE TAIL Clutch Bag

By Balmain

Located in Zürich, CH

100% authentic Balmain clutch in black matte crocodile tail, masterfully crafted in a bold, architectural silhouette that showcases the dramatic scale and texture of the exotic skin....

Category

2010s Italian Balmain Shoulder Bags

Balmain Medium Anthem Leather Shoulder Bag Burgundy - '20s

$1,775

Balmain Medium Anthem Leather Shoulder Bag Burgundy - '20s

By Balmain

Located in Milano, Lombardia

Presented on the runway during the Spring/Summer 2025 show, the Balmain Anthem is a striking shoulder bag crafted from supple burgundy calfskin leather, embodying the House’s contemp...

Category

2010s Balmain Shoulder Bags

Balmain Contemporary Black Leather Shopper Bag with White Logo, Unisex

$1,223Sale Price|25% Off

Balmain Contemporary Black Leather Shopper Bag with White Logo, Unisex

By Balmain

Located in Capri, IT

Balmain black leather shopper bag white leather logo suede lining 50*26*13 cm

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Balmain Shoulder Bags

Emanuel Ungaro Brown Swede Handbag w/ Jaguar Detail

$525

Emanuel Ungaro Brown Swede Handbag w/ Jaguar Detail

By Emanuel Ungaro

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Emanuel Ungaro Brown Swede Handbag w/ Jaguar Detail This beautiful exotic looking bag is in good condition. There are some wrinkles on the bag as well as some peeling on the fabric...

Category

1990s Italian Balmain Shoulder Bags

Yves Saint Laurent YSL Le 5 A 7 Hobo Mini Brown Silk Crystals Shoulder Bag

$2,582

Yves Saint Laurent YSL Le 5 A 7 Hobo Mini Brown Silk Crystals Shoulder Bag

By Yves Saint Laurent

Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR

Yves Saint Laurent YSL Le 5 A 7 Hobo Mini Brown Silk Crystals Shoulder Bag These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. CONDITION: NEVER WORN DETAILS YSL Le 5...

Category

2010s Italian Balmain Shoulder Bags

Chanel Vintage Medium Iridescent Brown Caviar Leather Shoulder Bag Gold Hardware

$3,628

Chanel Vintage Medium Iridescent Brown Caviar Leather Shoulder Bag Gold Hardware

By Chanel

Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR

Chanel Vintage Medium Iridescent Brown Caviar Leather Shoulder Bag Gold Hardware These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. This authentic vintage Chanel Sin...

Category

2010s French Balmain Shoulder Bags

Goyard Saint Louis PM Tote Medium Pink 2018

$2,750

Goyard Saint Louis PM Tote Medium Pink 2018

By Goyard

Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR

Goyard Saint Louis PM Tote Medium Pink 2018 These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. CONDITION: VERY GOOD This preloved / preowned Goyard tote is in very g...

Category

2010s French Balmain Shoulder Bags

Chanel Classic Flap Jumbo 2009 Coffee Brown Caviar Leather Single Flap Silver

$4,832

Chanel Classic Flap Jumbo 2009 Coffee Brown Caviar Leather Single Flap Silver

By Chanel

Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR

Chanel Classic Flap Jumbo 2009 Coffee Brown Caviar Leather Single Flap Silver Hardware These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. Embrace luxury with this ti...

Category

2010s French Balmain Shoulder Bags

Goyard Saint Louis PM Medium Burgundy Goyardine Tote 2017

$2,200

Goyard Saint Louis PM Medium Burgundy Goyardine Tote 2017

By Goyard

Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR

CONDITION: EXCELLENT Light stains on the inside. Rubbing around the corners, like cracks along the wax of the edges. DETAILS Goyard Saint Louis Made in France 2017 Burgundy...

Category

2010s French Balmain Shoulder Bags

Gucci Marmont Mini Flap Navy Velvet Handbag

$986

Gucci Marmont Mini Flap Navy Velvet Handbag

By Gucci

Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR

Gucci Marmont Mini Flap Navy Velvet Handbag These are professional photos of the actual bag. The Gucci Marmont Mini Flap Pink Velvet Crossbody Bag is a timeless and adaptable acces...

Category

2010s Italian Balmain Shoulder Bags

Chanel Classic 1990s Double Flap Bag

$6,457

H 7.49 in W 9.85 in D 2.96 in

Chanel Classic 1990s Double Flap Bag

By Chanel

Located in Frankfurt am Main, DE

The Chanel Classic Double Flap Bag is a true masterpiece of craftsmanship and a symbol of the timeless luxury of the Chanel brand. This bag, made from first-class calfskin in a deep ...

Category

1990s French Balmain Shoulder Bags

An Amazing 1980s Blue velvet and Brass Italian Shoulder Bag

$410

H 5.91 in W 10.63 in D 1.58 in L 22.45 in

An Amazing 1980s Blue velvet and Brass Italian Shoulder Bag

Located in Aci Castello, IT

Step back into the 1980s with this striking Italian shoulder bag, crafted from rich midnight blue velvet that exudes vintage luxury. The bag features a structured, trapezoidal silhou...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Balmain Shoulder Bags

YSL Envelope Large Black Crocodile Pattern Embossed Leather Silver Hardware

$1,811

YSL Envelope Large Black Crocodile Pattern Embossed Leather Silver Hardware

By Yves Saint Laurent

Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR

YSL Envelope Large Black Crocodile Pattern Embossed Leather Silver Hardware Shoulder Bag These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. CONDITION: EXCELLENT This...

Category

2010s Chinese Balmain Shoulder Bags

Chanel Cuba Cruise Bucket Bag Quilted Lambskin Black Pink 2-Way Flap Bag

$3,200

H 6.7 in W 6.7 in

Chanel Cuba Cruise Bucket Bag Quilted Lambskin Black Pink 2-Way Flap Bag

By Chanel

Located in Guangzhou, CN

These are professional pictures of the actual item offered by Eluse. Condition: Normal signs of wear: slight darkening and wear on the edge chain, scuffs on the four corners, stains...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Balmain Shoulder Bags

Goyard Saint Louis PM Tote Medium Red Goyardine 2017

$1,847

Goyard Saint Louis PM Tote Medium Red Goyardine 2017

By Goyard

Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR

Goyard Saint Louis PM Tote Medium Red Goyardine 2017 These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. Condition: Excellent condition Light stains on the inside. S...

Category

2010s French Balmain Shoulder Bags

Previously Available Items

Balmain Black Leather B Buzz 23 Pochette Convertible Shoulder Bag

Sold

Size: S

Balmain Black Leather B Buzz 23 Pochette Convertible Shoulder Bag

By Balmain

Located in Rome, Rome

Bold yet refined, the Balmain B-Buzz 23 Pochette in black leather is a statement piece that captures the house's signature blend of structure and elegance. With its elongated silhoue...

Category

2010s Italian Balmain Shoulder Bags

BALMAIN B-Buzz 23 hot pink calfskin gold B logo quilted satchel shoulder bag

Sold

BALMAIN B-Buzz 23 hot pink calfskin gold B logo quilted satchel shoulder bag

By Balmain

Located in Hong Kong, NT

BALMAIN B-Buzz 23 hot pink calfskin gold B logo quilted satchel shoulder bag Reference: TGAS/E00002 Brand: Balmain Designer: Olivier Rousteing Model: B-Buzz Collection: 2023 Material...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Balmain Shoulder Bags

1970s Balmain Paris White Cream and Gold Leather Shoulder Bag

Sold

1970s Balmain Paris White Cream and Gold Leather Shoulder Bag

By Balmain

Located in London, GB

Balmain Paris Handbag White cream Leather, brass metal ware, strong magnetic clasp closure, inside zipped pocket, suede interior This timeless and sophisticated design is crafted fro...

Category

1970s French Balmain Shoulder Bags

Balmain White B-Buzz Backpack Crossbody

Sold

H 6 in W 7 in D 2.75 in

Balmain White B-Buzz Backpack Crossbody

By Balmain

Located in Scottsdale, AZ

This beautiful white Balmain Backpack is show stopping. It has calf skin leather that is stunning. This bag can be transformed from an everyday backpack into a night out crossbody ba...

Category

2010s Italian Balmain Shoulder Bags

Balmain Quilted Lambskin Leather B-Bag 21 Crossbody

Sold

H 6.29 in W 8.26 in D 3.14 in

Balmain Quilted Lambskin Leather B-Bag 21 Crossbody

By Balmain

Located in Scottsdale, AZ

From Balmain's Fall 2019 runway in collaboration with Cara Delevingne. B-Bag 21 crafted in diamond quilted lambskin leather, has a structured form that is bold yet elegant taking the Balmain woman...

Category

2010s Italian Balmain Shoulder Bags

Balmain Black Leather Pierre Satchel Bag with Strap

Sold

Balmain Black Leather Pierre Satchel Bag with Strap

By Balmain

Located in New York, NY

Balmain Black Leather Pierre Satchel Bag Color: Black Hardware: Goldtone Materials: Leather, metal Lining: Cream leather Closure/Opening: Zip top Exterior Pockets: None Interior Poc...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Balmain Shoulder Bags

Balmain NEW Leather Silver Chain Clutch Crossbody Shoulder Strap Flap Bag

Sold

H 6 in W 12 in D 1 in

Balmain NEW Leather Silver Chain Clutch Crossbody Shoulder Strap Flap Bag

By Balmain

Located in Chicago, IL

CURATOR'S NOTES Calfskin Gunmetal hardware Satin interior lining Magnetic snap closure Shoulder strap drop 22.5” Measures 12" W x 6" H x 1" D

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Balmain Shoulder Bags

BALMAIN mat quilted leather large messenger bag

Sold

Size: 12" by 11" by 4"

BALMAIN mat quilted leather large messenger bag

By Balmain

Located in San Fransisco, CA

Jet black leather quilted shoulder bag designed by Christophe Decarnin for Balmain. Bag features: silver-tone hardware, black quilted top-stitch detailing, a fold-over front flap, a ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Balmain Shoulder Bags

Balmain shoulder bags for sale on 1stDibs.

Find an extraordinary range of authentic Balmain shoulder bags available on 1stDibs. Customers who are interested in this designer might also find the work of Yves Saint Laurent, Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche, and Emanuel Ungaro appealing. On 1stDibs, find haute couture, vintage and designer Balmain shoulder bags from top boutiques around the world. Balmain shoulder bags prices can differ depending upon time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $295 and tops out at $1,535, while the average work can sell for $1,205.

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Questions About Balmain Shoulder Bags

What is the Balmain brand?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Balmain is a French fashion house that opened in 1945. The full name of the company is Pierre Balmain, S.A., after founder Pierre Alexandre Claudius Balmain. Although the brand produces a full range of apparel and accessories, its leather jackets and blazers are especially well known. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Balmain.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The Balmain brand is a French luxury fashion house founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945. The current creative director is Oliver Rousteing, who was 25 years old at the time of his appointment. Prior to Balmain, Rousteing was the creative director for the women’s ready-to-wear collection at Roberto Cavalli. Find an assortment of Balmain apparel from the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Is Balmain black owned?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
No, Balmain is owned by the investment firm Mayhoola for Investments, which is based in Qatar. It is currently headed by creative director Olivier Rousteing, a Black designer. Shop for expertly authenticated Balmain products from top boutiques around the world on 1stDibs.
Are Balmain and Pierre Balmain the same?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 13, 2024
Pierre Balmain was the founder of Balmain, an iconic haute couture house based in Paris, France. Under creative director Olivier Rousteing, the brand introduced an affordable diffusion line named for its founder in 2011.

In the postwar years, Balmain became known for bell-shaped skirts falling from slender waists, structured jackets over sheath day dresses and embellishments like fur trim. Pierre died in 1982, and the company is now owned by Mayhoola for Investments.

From the dresses favored by Hollywood icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich to the sleek, skinny jeans seen on Nicki Minaj, Kid Cudi and every Kardashian, clothes from the House of Balmain have long been mainstays in celebrity wardrobes.

Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Who is Balmain?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
Balmain is an iconic French couture house founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945. The brand became known for its luxurious bell-shaped skirts and sophisticated cocktail dresses that drew on elegant ballet dancer costumes. It was among the first to offer French looks to the American market. Today’s Balmain has more in common with the master’s original haute couture than you might expect: sharply tailored blazers that nip in at the waist, delicate stilettos and ultra-feminine evening dresses are wardrobe basics for the 21st-century woman, too. Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is Balmain Paris?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
Balmain Paris is an iconic French couture house founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945. Balmain, which became known for its bell-shaped skirts and sophisticated cocktail dresses that drew on elegant ballet dancer costumes, was among the first to offer French looks to the American market. Since the death of the founder in 1982, the design reins at the company have been handed to luminaries such as Oscar de la Renta and Olivier Rousteing, an alum of Roberto Cavalli who was installed as creative director at the label in 2011. Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Where is Balmain located?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The headquarters of Balmain are located in Paris, France, where the brand was founded in 1945 by designer Pierre Balmain. There is an array of official Balmain stores worldwide. Browse a collection of expertly vetted Balmain products from top boutiques on 1stDibs.
Is Balmain streetwear?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
No, Balmain is not usually considered streetwear.

Streetwear generally refers to casual, comfortable and stylish apparel and accessories. It's heavily influenced by popular culture, and pioneering streetwear brands such as Stüssy and Supreme are forever intertwined with surfing and skating (thanks to high fashion's love affair with streetwear, black hoodies and graphic tees have certainly seen their fair share of runway time). Balmain, on the other hand, is a haute couture house founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945 that gained international acclaim for its elegant postwar gowns and full, luxurious skirts.

However, as often as today's Balmain offers ultra-feminine evening dresses and sharply tailored blazers, there are bold and edgy designs that aren't commonly associated with legacy haute couture labels. The brand's Resort menswear collection, which debuted in 2019, offered plenty of hoodies, dazzling graphic patterns and denim. And fashionistas can't help but clamor for the brand's t-shirts, military-style jackets and biker jeans.

On 1stDibs, find a collection of vintage Balmain clothing and accessories.
Where is Balmain manufactured?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Balmain is mostly manufactured in France, where the brand is based. They also have a variety of manufacturing centers in other countries including Italy, Bulgaria, Japan, China and Poland. Shop a collection of expertly authenticated Balmain products from top boutiques on 1stDibs.
What is a Balmain dress?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A dress designed by Balmain promises exceptional quality in materials and design. The designs are inspired by power and confidence, and are well known for flattering structured silhouettes. Stud detailing is commonly featured on Balmain dresses. Shop a variety of Balmain dresses on 1stDibs.
Is Balmain French?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Balmain is a French fashion house first established in Paris in 1945. It was founded by French designer Pierre Balmain, and is known for its luxurious quality and design. Shop a collection of authentic Balmain pieces from top sellers worldwide on 1stDibs.
Who is Balmain's designer?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
Balmain’s designer is Olivier Rousteing, the iconic French couture house’s current creative director. Rousteing is an alum of Roberto Cavalli. He was installed as Balmain’s creative director in 2011. Shop vintage Balmain clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.
How do you pronounce Balmain?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
Balmain is pronounced “bahl-MAH.” The “n” at the end is silent. French fashion designer Pierre Balmain established his now-iconic label in 1945. Alongside fellow couture titans Christian Dior and Hubert de Givenchy, Balmain’s postwar take on luxe dressing featured bell-shaped skirts falling from slender waists, structured jackets over sheath day dresses and embellishments like fur trim. Shop a collection of vintage Balmain from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How do Balmain hoodies fit?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Balmain hoodies tend to have a more fitted cut, so you may want to order up a size if you prefer a baggier look. Check the sizing chart on the Balmain website for specific measurements to ensure you find the right size. Shop a collection of authentic Balmain hoodies from top boutiques around the world on 1stDibs.
How do Balmain dresses fit?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Some Balmain dresses tend to run small and you may need to order up a size to find the right fit. Check the Balmain size chart on their website before ordering to ensure your dress will fit properly. Browse a range of Balmain dresses from top boutiques around the world on 1stDibs.
How do I clean a Balmain blazer?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 18, 2024
The best way to clean a Balmain blazer depends on the style and material of the blazer. The care tag inside of the blazer can likely provide optimal cleaning instructions to keep your garment looking its best. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of vintage Balmain blazers from some of the world’s top sellers.
How do Balmain shirts fit?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The fit of a Balmain shirt is dependent on its silhouette and fabric. Refer to the measurements and product description on the brand’s website for recommendations on sizing. If you do a fair amount of online apparel shopping, experts suggest that you gather accurate body measurements using a tape measure. Shop a range of Balmain shirts from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 29, 2024
Balmain shirts fit well according to online testimonials. The shirts offered by the French luxury brand generally feature a modern semi-fitted cut. Dress shirts may be a slim fit but they aren’t constricting or skinny. If you prefer a looser fit, you may wish to purchase a Balmain shirt one size larger than what you normally buy. Size charts are available on Balmain's official website. On 1stDibs, find a selection of vintage Balmain shirts.
How do I style a Balmain blazer?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Styling your Balmain blazer depends uniquely on your personal style and preference. This classic piece is simple to pair with a skirt, jeans or leggings. Wear it buttoned for a put-together vibe or open for a more relaxed style. Shop a range of authentic Balmain blazers from top sellers on 1stDibs.
Who designs Balmain jeans?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Olivier Rousteing designs Balmain jeans. He became the creative director of the brand in 2011. Rousteing worked for Roberto Cavalli for six years before coming to Balmain in 2009. You can shop for a variety of Balmain apparel on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The creative director of Balmain is Oliver Rousteing. Balmain denim continues to be one of the most highly coveted garments from the brand due to their high-end tailoring and unique silhouettes. Browse a wide range of authentic Balmain jeans from some of the world’s top retailers on 1stDibs.
Where can I buy Balmain jeans?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Balmain features an official website you can shop from. They have also partnered with retailers around the world that offer their jeans. You can browse 1stDibs to find a range of authentically vetted Balmain jeans from some of the top boutiques worldwide.
Are Balmain sunglasses polarized?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Sometimes. Balmain offers many styles of polarized sunglasses as well as non-polarized sunglasses to suit your needs and personal preferences. Polarization is typically identified in the name or features of the particular style of sunglasses. On 1stDibs, find a range of authentic Balmain sunglasses from top sellers.
Is Balmain real leather?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Balmain is indeed real leather. It uses a variety of leather materials in its different designs from lambskin and nubuck to calfskin. You can shop a collection of vintage and contemporary Balmain couture from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
What was Pierre Balmain known for?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Pierre Balmain was a French fashion designer most known for founding his fashion house Balmain. Balmain’s designs are described as sophisticated and elegant, and remain one of the most sought after garments in high-fashion. Find vintage and contemporary Balmain designs from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.

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