Tirade 13: The sparkle of Balmain

Apparently sequins are on the way out. I on the other hand will always be attracted all that is glitters, and one brand whose vision agrees with this whole heartedly, creating such shiny treasures to perfection is Balmain.

Christophe Decarnin appointed artistic director of the House of Balmain at the end of 2005, remains true to his priorities: clothes and the way in which they determine a style, a character and an aura. But also realism in its most contemporary form, and the way in which it should become part and parcel of glamour.

Surrounded by a small team of people, still operating from the same address, 44, Rue François Premier, he explains: "My references are very visual. Anything and everything can inspire me: the women in my life, a piece of fabric, a colour, a photo, my imagination. But the important thing is to be able to transpose it all realistically. Because, after all, an item of clothing is made to be worn. Pierre Balmain had a very on-trend approach to fashion: he wanted to create the appropriate outfit for the appropriate moment. That is also my ambition."

So there you go - sequins and sparkle to be worn.

And if your pocket can't stretch to Pierre Balmain's ambition then why not grab a piece of Balmain at a fraction of the price at The Outnet - every girl's favourite destination for discounted designer collections.