In the last few seasons, Balmain put out compelling collections of tough, sexy clothes and consistently challenged value conventions with its pricing meme.

Now that SS10 clothes are at stores, it seems that the French label has a different concept for men.  A destroyed men’s T retails for $345 (moderate distress) to $535 (above left), and the more severe women’s style goes for $1465 (above right).  Those willing to forgo rips can instead opt for a T-shirt 3 pack for $305 at Barneys.

Looks like Balmain Hommes is less directional than the women’s line, even within menswear (via):

For FW10, it departs from the women’s collection even more, with a blatantly preppy look (via, via):

I kind of relate to the men’s collections more than to the women’s.  Not sure that I’m ready for a power suit.  The men’s clothes don’t scream their label, either, which may be good.  When a woman wears Balmain, there’s no mistaking it.  It can be fun for night but seems like overkill for day wear.

Tags: Balmain, Fashion/Design, FW10, menswear, SS10