Balmain looks to fashion Far West

PARIS, Sept 29, 2011 (AFP) - Cowgirl fringes and pony-tails, cropped jackets heavy with crystals and gold embroidery: Balmain looked to a glamour Far West as its young new designer unveiled his first look for the French fashion house.

Balmain SS 2012 / Photo: Pixel Formula

Olivier Rousteing, the label's 26-year-old new designer, pulled in influences from a toreador's bolero to the American West of cowgirls and Las Vegas, creating a line in perfect keeping with the house's trademark look.

The 1980s Aussie band INXS provided the rock and roll soundtrack for the Spring-Summer palette of spotless white, graphic black, faded-denim blue, silver, gold and a handful of pastels.

Waistlines were high, belts wide, some with rocker studs, while dresses blended embroidery with quilted silk and leather, or glass pearls that ran in cowgirl fringes all the way down the arm.

Balmain SS 2012 / Photo: Pixel Formula

Faux-jean cotton blouses or mannish shirts, worn over embroidered gold skirts or white-and-gold pants, kept the ensemble just the right side of bling.

The more adventurous could pick from among leather or suede mini-shorts paired with little bustiers, while the modest could go for long country skirts buttoned all down the front.