Balmain is a fashion house that was founded by Pierre Balmain.

In the period following World War II, Pierre Balmain was "a king of French fashion" and outfitted stars including Ava Gardner and Brigitte Bardot.Yaeger, Lynn. "Balmain Nouveau." Vogue (October 2007), p254-56. After Pierre Balmain's death in 1982, the house was led by Erik Mortensen, described by Vogue as Pierre Balmain's "right hand." Oscar de la Renta led the house between 1993 and 2001. Under Pierre Balmain, Mortensen, and de la Renta, the house was known for its classic, luxurious designs. Today, the house is led by designer Christophe Decarnin, whose vision for the house is more modern and edgier.