1.4: A New French Style, Part 2: Gertrude, Alice and Pierre

<p><strong><span class="ql-cursor"></span></strong>Maira Kalman, the celebrated author, illustrator and designer joins the l’Atelier Balmain podcast for episode four. Kalman who oversaw 2020’s critically praised and colorful re-edition of Gertrude Stein’s best-selling “Autobiography of Alice B Toklas,” discusses the incredible literary and artistic legacy of Gertrude Stein and Alice B Toklas. Pierre Balmain shared a deep friendship with the couple, and he was very devoted to his pair of “American Mothers”—which is why Gertrude Stein, Alice B Toklas, along with their famous white poodle, Basket, were seated front and center at Pierre Balmain’s first show.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This is the second of four episodes concentrating on the fascinating moments and personalities that played a part in the incredible story of the 1945 birth of the house of Balmain. The group of four episodes, taking its name from Alice B Toklas’ famous summation of Pierre Balmain’s first collection—A New French Style—turns to some of today’s leading writers, documentary film makers, museum curators&nbsp;and fashion writers for unique insights on Paris post-war style and challenges, Pierre Balmain’s fresh new style, iconic images of Balmain designs and some of the legendary personalities seated in the front row of that first house presentation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At each step, we’ll also make clear how Olivier Rousteing continues to build upon the firm foundations that Pierre Balmain established, 75 years ago.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>CREDITS L’ATELIER BALMAIN EPISODE FOUR</strong></p><p><strong>A NEW FRENCH STYLE, PART 2: GERTRUDE, ALICE AND PIERRE</strong></p><br><p><strong>Balmain Creative Director: </strong>Olivier Rousteing</p><p><strong>Special Podcast Guest:</strong> Maira Kalman</p><p><strong>Music: </strong>&nbsp;J’ai Deux Amours — Josephine Baker</p><p><strong>Additional Music:</strong> Jean-Michel Derain</p><p><strong>Episode Direction and Production: </strong>Seb Lascoux</p><p><strong>Balmain Historian: </strong>Julia Guill