THE HOUSE OF BALMAIN IS THRIVING

above are looks from balmain's fall 2008 show. i love the sleek, languid, sexiness of it. it has a definite rocker chic to it, yet manages to still drip feminine sensuality. i live! (style.com)

creative director for the brand, christophe decarnin. sexy. no? (style.com)

paris - are you familiar with balmain? the legendary french luxury label is right up there with the house of dior, givenchy, balenciaga and chanel. in recent years, they've seen their profits and prestige plunge, but it is now experiencing a turn around. this summer, balmain will relaunch its menswear line, designed by balmain's creative director, christophe decarnin. the house has also debuted a womens fragrance: ambre gris. if that's not enough, they are testing a new childrenswear range and are in talks with luxottica to create a line of sunglasses. balmain is feeling bold after rapid growth last year which culminated in a three million euro profit. according it its c hariman, alain hivelin, they are looking to more than triple that amount to ten million euros this year.