"Good fashion is evolution, not revolution" ? Pierre Balmain

One of the original big Parisian couture houses, alongside the likes of Dior and Chanel, Pierre Balmain reigned supreme over the 1950s fashion world with his spectacular and intricate evening wear.

Now, in the twenty-first century, Balmain's ultra-modern look ? still with the spirit of Pierre ? is worn by the likes of Beyoncé, Kristen Stewart, Kate Moss and Kendall Jenner. Heavily embellished, dazzling detail meets futuristic silhouettes for an instantly recognisable look.

Known for their strong social media presence driven by their "Balmain army" of fans, Balmain holds a unique position among the top couture houses today.

Karen Homer is an established fashion journalist who worked as a fashion columnist for The Times and has contributed to the Telegraph, Harpers & Queen, Elle, World of Interiors and Vogue. She is the bestselling author of the Little Book of Dior and Things a Woman Should Know About Style. She lives in London.