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Despite the chaos during Paris Fashion Week, I visited the Balmain store on Rue Saint-Honoré (374 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris). I had recently purchased a denim jacket and a statement tuxedo top from Net-a-Porter, both in size 42. I tend to size up when ordering French brands because, let's be honest, no one wants to deal with something too small! If it's larger, then at least you can tailor it. The shopping experience online was smooth, with DHL delivering almost overnight. Yet, I couldn't help but feel the sizing was a little off when the pieces arrived. Trying on the Pieces The Pleated Denim Jacket in a light blue wash felt oversized, especially in the back. I thought it might just be the style, but my friend pointed out that it was clearly too big. When I saw this jacket online, I rushed to get it because I'd been looking at it for many months, even while I was in Houston. Balmain is known for its peplum pieces, and my love for denim really drew me in. Features:
   Next was the Structured Crepe Top—a black tuxedo-inspired piece with gold buttons and an elegantly tailored shape. It's daring yet classic, which is exactly what drew me to it. On the model, it was paired with designer denim, creating a quintessentially Parisian look that I adore—elevated denim, heels, and luxurious tailoring. But when I tried it on, it, too, felt slightly big. At 5'2", I have a shorter upper body, so I knew some tailoring would be to make it truly fit like a glove. Features:
    The Balmain Flagship Store Experience A few days later, I decided to take my friend and visit the Balmain flagship store to figure out the correct sizing. A sales associate greeted us warmly and listened carefully to what I needed. She brought me the denim jacket in a smaller size 40, which fit perfectly. The details—the peplum, the shoulder stitching, the bold buttons—everything about the smaller jacket gave off an effortlessly cool and sexy vibe. The tailoring hugged my waist just right, making the jacket a statement and a modern, chic piece I knew I'd get endless wear. There's one thing about French tailoring - they'll find your waist! They're going to make sure you have a waistline! However, a smaller size wasn't the solution for the tuxedo top. The sales associate and I concluded tailoring the neck straps to fit my petite frame was best. What I love about shopping luxury is that these brands offer in-house tailoring, making pieces fit perfectly to your body. It's not just about buying something beautiful; it's about making it yours. Balmain's attention to detail, both in design and service, truly elevates the experience. Even though I bought the pieces from Net-a-Porter, the SA at Balmain still took her time to work with me on fit and styling options. I ended up returning both pieces to Net-a-Porter. However, I reordered the black tuxedo top because I couldn't live without it! It's a strong and beautiful statement, quintessential Balmain. I'll have to take it in for the tailoring to fit my petite frame. Falling for the Red Tweed Jacket and Jeans During my second visit to the store, I made an appointment with the same SA. I couldn't help but try on a red tweed jacket. The moment I slipped it on, I was hooked. The vibrant color lit up my complexion and gave me that "wow" moment I look for. Paired with a tailored pair of Balmain jeans, I knew I was in trouble—the jeans were (gorgeous) too long, but the sales associate immediately pinned them to my ideal length while I wore heels. Again, Balmain's on-site tailoring worked its magic, and within a couple of days, the jeans were ready for me to pick up. Some stores also offer courier service or alternative delivery options to ensure you get your items where you want and need them.  The Importance of the In-Store Experience What makes luxury shopping different is the bond you create with the pieces in-store. My sales associate knew exactly what to bring out, offering pieces I had yet to consider. Feeling the textures, seeing how the colors enhance your complexion, and seeing yourself in the mirror is a complete sensory experience. When I put on the red tweed jacket and denim jeans, I couldn't help but smile. These pieces weren't just items I liked—they became part of my Parisian style story. The process of trying, tailoring, and personalizing these pieces is what makes luxury truly special. I can't wait to wear my new Balmain treasures, each carefully chosen and crafted to fit me perfectly. Balmain's commitment to craftsmanship and tailoring makes each piece feel like an extension of you, and that's what luxury is all about. Craftsmanship Highlights: • The denim jacket, made in Italy, features exquisite pleating, structured tailoring and Balmain's signature gold and silver lion buttons. It perfectly blends Parisian chic with modern elegance. • Balmain's in-house tailoring ensures a flawless fit, making every piece feel custom-made. • Attention to detail—from intricate stitching to fabric choice—makes Balmain's designs stand out as timeless yet innovative. Don't forget your hangers!   Pieces from the recent collection - October 2024    
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AuthorBonjour, I’m Tsahia—friends call me Tash. I’m a Parisian luxury-focused entrepreneur and writer, living in the heart of Paris. I'm currently studying Global Luxury Brand Management at Sup de Luxe. 
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