Ever since its earliest days, Balmain has always been intent on boldly forging its own unique and exceptional way forward. It was Pierre Balmain who set the tone from day one, audaciously founding his own house in the uncertain days immediately following Paris’ liberation, determined to introduce his fresh, feminine and game changing vision of a “New French Style” to the world of couture. And over the past decade, Balmain’s current creative director, Olivier Rousteing, has clearly fortified that special spearheading superpower that sets Balmain apart opening his runways to thousands, partnering with music’s biggest talents, connecting in a direct and authentic manner with house followers—while always making sure to leave wide and open each door that he’s pushed through, for those who follow in his path.

As its name makes clear, Balmain’s new Blaze collection of luxury leather bags, with their dramatic cut, impressive exposed hardware and modern-Baroque spirit, is the perfect embodiment of the house’s singular trail-blazing superpower. Or… perhaps the name references Rousteing’s perfectly tailored blazer designs? After all, the strong-shouldered, nipped-waist, confidence-boosting cut of those signature six button jackets is clearly echoed in the new accessories’ distinctive silhouette.

“Obviously, the name works on multiple levels,” explains Rousteing. ”But beyond riffing on those many house inspirations, more than anything else, I wanted the Blaze to be a bag that was definitely going to be noticed. I told my design team that I imagined these bags as being key elements of the boldest possible of entrances. For me, these designs evoke the bullet-proof shields carried by the fearless superheroes of my youth—and I really love the idea of our Balmain Blaze adding an empowering sensation of invincibility as the perfect final touch for every ensemble.”

Channeling both the superpower of a heritage house and the protective armor of historic superheroes, the Balmain Blaze collection is made up of a variety of luxury leather shoulder bags and clutches that rely on strong juxtapositions of colors and textures. The energetic force of the designs is underlined by the collection’s many couture-inspired embellishments and the abundance of very shiny, very visible hardware that help ensure Rousteing’s goal of creating a uniquely powerful and eye catching accessory.