Balmain's hero piece season after season is the double-breasted blazer. They've done it in just about every fabric and colour.
When it comes to luxury ready-to-wear I’m not usually a huge spender. I tend to put my money in shoes and bags. However, I have one major weakness which gets me spending BIG TIME and that’s Balmain blazers.
I’ve chatted about my love affair with Balmain many, many, many times. Despite talking about this obsession endlessly I’ve never done a proper review on their blazers. I’ve blogged about me shopping for them (catch it HERE and HERE), my Balmain x H&M experience (read that HERE) and the best way to style them (see HERE).
It is obvious I think these blazers are amazing and worth the money, so instead of doing my usual of discussing the overall wearability, quality and price, I’m going to talk individually about the 3 types of Balmain jackets I own: mainline, vintage and Balmain x H&M.
Mainline
Balmain’s hero piece season after season is the double-breasted blazer. They’ve done it in just about every fabric and colour.
I’ve said this before but I’ll say it again, if you want to invest in a blazer which you’ll wear time and time again, Balmain is the ONLY option. Honestly, you won’t regret it. I wear mine with everything, whether it be for meetings when I need to look smart or I’ll throw it over a pretty dress when I’m catching up with the girls at brunch. There is no occasion this jacket isn’t perfect for.
The fabric, cut and weight of the buttons cannot be replicated. I don’t care how good a dupe is, you’ll never be able to reach the same level of quality and fit. Nothing fits like a Balmain blazer and this is due to the incredible cut which nips you in at the waist and fits perfectly across the shoulders. It provides a stunning silhouette without making you look bulky.
The price of these are a little scary and they go up every year. They’re currently around the £1500 mark. You just have to justify it by thinking about that cost per wear!
Finally, I thought I’d touch on sizing. This grey one is a size FR40, which translates as a UK12 and is about 2 sizes too big but I got it for a steal, so I had to make do. I mostly wear it thrown across my shoulders so I just about get away with it. As a general rule of thumb, these come true to size. You can size down if you prefer a more fitted and accentuated silhouette. Alternatively, if you’re like me and tend to wear jackets over your shoulders then consider sizing up a size. You can read more about sizing and how to work out the correct fit
As a general rule of thumb, these come true to size. You can size down if you prefer a more fitted and accentuated silhouette. Alternatively, if you’re like me and tend to wear jackets over your shoulders then consider sizing up a size. You can read more about sizing and how to work out the correct fit HERE.
Outfit details: Dress – ASOS (find HERE or very similar HERE) | Jacket – Balmain (similar HERE) | Shoes – Pretty Little Thing (find HERE) | Bag – Sadie Stone (find HERE & use code thatnewdress to get 10% off)
Vintage
My first ever Balmain jacket was a vintage find from my favourite preloved store (you can read the full story HERE).
I wanted to mention vintage styles and archive designs as it’s much easier to find these at a bargain price. Just because certain styles are not “current” doesn’t mean they should be dismissed. I often find there’s a tendency to feel the need to buy the latest and hottest design if you’re investing a sizable amount of money. However, with a brand like Balmain their designs are so timeless and the quality is so fantastic, it doesn’t matter if it’s a few years, or even a decade old. It will still feel and look just as amazing.
If you’re interested in finding a vintage Balmain jacket these are a few of my favourites HERE, HERE and HERE which I’m currently crushing on! You shouldn’t expect to spend more than £600-£800 for a vintage; anything more is overpriced!
My only word of warning with vintage is sizing can be a little precarious. I’m wearing a FR38 which is my usual size and it is so tight around my arms and back. I usually only wear it when I’m having a “skinny day”!
If you’ve seen one online and can’t try it on, seek advice either through a fashion forum or always feel free to message me with any questions (all my social handles are below).
Outfit details: Dress – New Look (find HERE on SALE or similar HERE with sleeves and even more gorgeous) | Jacket – Balmain (find HERE & HERE preloved or similar HERE if you’re not a fan of preloved) | Shoes – Saint Laurent (find HERE & HERE) | Bag- Givenchy (similar HERE & HERE)
Balmain X H&M
Despite the Balmain x H&M collection being 3 years old (where has the time gone?!) I couldn’t fail to give it a mention. If you don’t want to spend big but love the “Balmain look” then try and find something from this collaboration rather than buy a copy from the likes of Missguided or Pretty Little Thing. If you search Depop, eBay or Vestiaire Collective, they do pop up every now and again.
I bought this, which is technically a dress but I only ever wear it as a jacket, from another blogger on Depop about 6 months ago. I paid £240 for it. This collection has really held its value and some sellers are still asking for big money. However, I wouldn’t recommend spending more than £300 on one of the blazers, especially if it’s already been worn.
The quality of this collection blew me away. Obviously, it is not the exact same as the mainline but it’s pretty close. The gold buttons are weighty, the satin lapels feel similar to my vintage Balmain jacket and the cut is perfection. Without a shadow of a doubt, you are getting the Balmain look and quality for a fraction of the price.
Apart from this blazer, I also have the leather jacket, satin dress, leather trousers and suede trousers from this collaboration and every piece comes up small, so I highly recommend sizing up.
I hope this rundown on everything Balmain blazers has been helpful. I’ve tried to cover everything from pricing, to sizing, to quality but if I’ve missed anything please let me know. Ultimately, the point of this post was to show whatever your budget, whether it be £1500, £700 or £200, you can have a stunning Balmain jacket in your wardrobe which you’ll wear over and over again
Outfit details: Dress – ASOS (find HERE on SALE) | Jacket – Balmain x H&M (Currently there are no preloved versions of this jacket available but similar from the mainline HERE & HERE) | Booties – Chloe (find HERE or the black versions HERE on SALE in limited sizes or this season’s terracotta version HERE & blue HERE) | Bag – Christian Dior (find HERE in black and HERE in tan)
Don’t forget you can also keep up with me on Instagram @thatnewdress, Twitter @thatnewdress, Bloglovin That New Dress, Snapchat thatnewdress and Depop @dominiquew.
Loved reading your through and in depth review of the Balmain collection! I always have loved the fit and how the silhouette falls but yes the price has always stung me, but it’s worth investing for the wear we get.
Hope you’re have an amazing weekend! 🙂
xx
Ankita
http://realgirltalks.com/
So awesome! Love everything about this!
Much love, Hadasah
http://www.styletolove.com
Your vintage Balmain blazer is just precious! I’m a sucker for vintage designer pieces: they’re cheaper, great quality and you won’t find anyone wearing the same blazer 🙂
xx
http://www.lambassadrice.com/
These black blazers are just incredible and stunning on you! You stylished them so well and I’m happy for your shopping 🙂 You always remind me of an actress but I can’t remember who! so beautiful btw 🙂
Dasynka
http://dasynka.com
Beautiful oufits!, love your style.
xo
Blog: http://blondepow.blogspot.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blonde_stylishchic/?hl=es
Love all three balmain blazers – you look amazing in them! My favourite has to be the vintage one though – the starry dress you paired it with is just perfect!
Heather xoxo
https://www.hefafa.me.uk
Very nice 🙂
https://oousoo.org/2018/03/03/bbg-week-4/
My favourite look is the second one, maybe because I’ m having. crush over that dress which works so well styled with the Balmain jacket! xx
http://www.bonjourchiara.com
All the looks are so chic! but my fav is definitly the last one, you look amazing 🙂
http://www.blossomikebana.com
Thanks for the interesting post) Have a nice day)
both star dresses are sooo lovely!
http://madeinkyiv.com/
love the blazer hon.. you look lovely x
https://zunera-serena.com/
These blazers are great but I love the grey one most. It’s everything.
http://sophieatieno.com
always so chic!!
kisses from the sandpit of dubai ❤︎
http://www.mahryska.com
These blazers are beautiful and looks so chic on you! I love them all all!
http://violettedaily.com
I love the way you put an outfit together each one has that extra something and I also love the stars – super cute!
James
http://lookingoodfeelinfine.com/
These coats are fabulous. I like all three, but the favorite is the first !!!
xoxo
marisasclosetblog.com
These are so gorgeous!!
http://www.jessicabroyles.com
Such a gorgeous collection you have and this was a great and detailed post! Have a great week.
Gemma x
http://www.jacquardflower.uk
I love the jacket you wear in the second outfit, gorgeous x
Laura
https://pinkfrenzymissl.blogspot.fr/
omg I hear you! I usually invest in designer bags and accessories because I feel like I get more usage out of it. This being said, I absolutely LOVE the vintage balmain look. It is such a beautiful pairing with the star dress!
-Didier
http://www.didieryhc.com
These outfits are so chic, I love the star prints
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com
You look amazing! I absolutely love your outfit and photos!
http://www.recklessdiary.ru
this is an awesome look!
xoxo
Patinka
http://www.patinkasworld.com
very beautiful looks, love the 2 dress
new outfit on my blog <<< street style: fashion slogan, claim and icon >>>
have a nice day
OMG how I love balmain!!! By these blazers you can definitely see quality and a perfect fit.
http://www.fashionradi.com
Love the basic looks.
Amazing looks.
xx
https://theonethattravels.wordpress.com/
Cute outfits.. especially that second one.. you look great.
http://www.henatayeb.blogspot.com
What an amazing blazer, I love the color!
https://styledwithamanda.blogspot.com
You look amazing! Omg, those shoes are really cute! Love all your looks! Thanks for sharing!
Have a great week!
Much love, Len
http://www.lenparent.com
XO
Love love love your Balmain jacket collection! Really look good in anything you paired them with. My most favourite look is the second one with a sheer gold star dress.
http://www.busyandfab.com
Gorgeous looks. My favourite is look 2. xoxo Cris
http://photosbycris.blogspot.com.au/2018/03/snapper-rocks-what-to-wear.html
love all three but I think the HM x Balmain is the chic-est 😊 I really enjoyed reading this post!
https://annicklau.com
You Balmain blazer collection is really killer, lady! I need a vintage one in my LIFE!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
beautiful outfit dear!! goodevening XoXo
http://moonluns.blogspot.it/2018/03/jjshouse-dresses-bridesmaid.html
You look super chic here! Love the first blazer on you.
Those boots are FAB too!
Lyndi
http://www.stylecalling.com
I love this blazer!
http://www.enricasciarretta.com
Those coats are perfect for runway.
I love the cuts and edges of it.
Much Love,
Jane | The Bandwagon Chic
Who would not love a blazer like this? It just levels up your outfit into an elegant look. It may be pricey but it is definitely worth it.
StyleSprinter Blog by Katya Bychkova
Adore your blazers darling, you look absolutely amazing!
xoxo
Lovely
I like a piece that is so versatile like your blazer dress!! I’d like to see how you style the blazer as a dress!!!
Hope you are having a lovely one!
xoxo,
AikA❤︎
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That blazer is so gorgeous!! LOVE how you’ve styled it
http://www.petiteelliee.com
Ellie xx
The grey coat looks amazing!Love your style:-)
http://www.lostindaydreams.com/
You look simply fantastic, all your outifts are great but my favourites one are the first and the second one. You seem a true princess in the second outfit, the dress and the blazer are gorgeous!
Have a beautiful evening.
Regards,
Flo
Very stylish outfits!
https://fashionablegalaxy.blogspot.com
Very stylish outfits! I like dresses with stars and of course jackets!
https://fashionablegalaxy.blogspot.com
Those blazers looks really cool and will never go out of style 🙂
xx Alyssa | STYLE VANITY
Your blazers and dresses look so stunning! I love how chic these outfits are 🙂 http://www.bauchlefashion.com/2018/03/top-7-shoes-for-spring.html
I have always wanted a Balmain blazer too, one in black. I think they’re so gorgeous! And obviously fitted to perfectly, but I can’t justify the price yet. Your vintage one is absolutely stunning though, the shoulder detailing is so cool!
Raindrops of Sapphire
You’re so right, they’re great value for money if you think about the cost per wear but it’s a lot to spend in one hit! xx
Thank you so much hun xx
Totally agree hun and more often than not vintage is better quality than new! xx
Oooh I wish you could think of the actress, I would LOVE to know! xx
Thank you so much sweetie xx
The vintage one definitely seems to be a popular one! xx
Thank you xx
Thank you hun, I’m such a sucker for a starry dress xx
Thank you doll! I like the last look too. The jumper dress is the comfiest thing ever xx
Thank you so much lovely xx
Thank you, anything with stars on is my favourite! xx
Thank you Zunera xx
The grey is my favourite too! I wear it to death xx
Thank you darling xx
Thank you Gemma xx
Thank you so much darling xx
That one is my favourite too! xx
Thank you so much lovely Laura xx
Thank you so much! I’m all about investing in less but better quality xx
Thank you so much hun xx
You’re such a sweetie, thanks doll xx
Thank you darling xx
So sweet, thank you hun xx
Isn’t Balmain just the best, it’s my very favourite designer of all! xx
Thank you Hena xx
Thank you hun xx
Thanks doll, so glad you enjoyed the most hunny xx
The second look seems to be very popular! I love anything with stars on it xx
Thank you so much hunny xx
I get so much wear out of the Balmain x HM one. It was such a good buy xx
You should soooo invest in one! They’re so unique and gorgeous xx
Thank you Luna xx
These boots are the best and I’m obsessed with them! I wear them all the time xx
Thank you darling xx
They are so beautifully cut, that’s why I adore these blazers so much xx
You’re so right! You definitely get your value for money out of a Balmain blazer which makes splurging easier to swallow xx
You’re so lovely, thank you hun xx
Awwww you’re a sweetie hun xx
That’s so lovely of you, thank you xx
Thank you so much! Oooh I love that you think I look like a princess, hehe xx
Thank you so much Tanya xx
I love stars, almost as much as Balmain jackets, hehe! xx
Totally agree, they’re such classics you wear for years and years xx
Thank you so much you lovely ladyyyy! xx
I love your grey jacket! The cinched in waist detail is beautiful! x
http://www.curiouser-and-curiouser.co.uk
Thank you xx
You need one in your life! I promise you’ll wear it endlessly hun xx
Thank you so much, this jacket is a favourite of mine xx
I just very recently got my first blazer and I am hooked! I especially love the first one, the grey. So feminine, classic, and elegant! I love it. Thanks for sharing!
Jani | http://www.mylifeinmedicineblog.com
You are such a sweetie, thank you hun xx
Thank you so much! I always love versatile pieces xx
That’s such a lovely thing to say, thank you so much! I really appreciate it xx
Blazers are the best! I’m totally addicted too! xx