03/05/12 - At the helm of his second collection with Balmain, twenty-something Oliver Rousteign managed to retain the French brand's iconic features while adding new styles and a personal touch. This fall/winter 2012-13 line, which Rousteign presented in Paris, is a solid mix of haute couture and typical French chic.

At the helm of his second collection with Balmain, twenty-something Oliver Rousteign managed to retain the French brand's iconic features while adding new styles and a personal touch.

This fall/winter 2012-13 line, which Rousteign presented in Paris, is a solid mix of haute couture and typical French chic. There are elaborate handmade pieces, sewn with gold thread and featuring pearls, crystals and extravagant textiles like velvet and satin, all combined with knitted sweaters, minidresses and leather garments.

With a maxi rococo look, Balmain bring back their own classic proportions for the coming fall, highlighting shoulders and legs in reinterpreted silhouettes. Their very short skirts and skinny pants are all decorated in a palette of dark colors, with some nude tones.