Balmain was founded in 1945 by Pierre Balmain. The French designer's father and mother owned a boutique and a drapery business: the inspiration to a life-long career in fashion. The designer was also heavily influenced by Christian Dior who played a defining role in the development of the Balmain label. The Balmain aesthetic is one of refined eroticism and seduction, with lashings of leather and baroque inspired prints found throughout its collections. Accessories include a line of leather safety-buckle backpacks.