PARISIAN PIVOT
Luxury brand Balmain bids adieu to River Oaks, relocates to the Galleria
After a très chic debut in River Oaks District less than two years ago, legendary French fashion house Balmain is on the move. Promising a larger space and posh interiors, Balmain is relocating its Houston flagship boutique to the Galleria in summer 2025, joining many of the most sought-after luxury brands, including Dolce & Gabbana, Balenciaga, Chanel, Bottega Veneta, Rolex, and more.
The new boutique, exclusive to Houston and only one of two in Texas, promises a more expansive space, about 2,100 square feet, dedicated to men's and women's ready-to-wear collections. Inspired by a refined but cozy Parisian apartment, the new outpost will feature a serene color palette with cream-toned curtains, soft carpet, and iconic "Pumpkin" armchairs by Pierre Paulin, known for their coquille-like shape. These soft features will contrast with the sharp lines of triangular columns, concrete floors, and polished stainless steel, a subtle nod to the brand's New York boutique.
"For decades, the Galleria has remained Houston's premier choice for high-end fashion," said Velda Turan, senior vice president of luxury leasing for property owner Simon. "Given their bold, distinctive designs and meticulous craftsmanship, the logical home for Balmain is within the exclusive luxury collection at the Galleria. We are pleased to welcome Balmain to the Galleria and support their continued success."
Balmain recently dressed Jenny Ortega for the 2025 Met Gala in a dress sculpted entirely out of metal rulers as a nod to traditional patternmakers. Photo courtesy of Balmain/Instagram
Photo courtesy of Balmain/Instagram
From River Oaks to The Galleria, Balmain elevates its Houston presence with a larger, couture-inspired space.
In recent years, major luxury fashion houses at the Galleria, such as Louis Vuitton, Fendi, and Saint Laurent, have expanded and reimagined their spaces. Many of these boutiques, Guccibeing the most recent example, have doubled in size and introduced new design prototypes.
"Our decision to relocate our flagship Houston boutique to the Galleria naturally follows the steps of a new chapter for Balmain, enhancing the in-store experience while staying true to the brand's unique attitude," said Emily George, president, the Americas at Balmain. "Each of our locations reflects this, offering a bespoke, couture-inspired environment that connects with our clients on a deeper level. We've noticed a strong demand locally for an expanded and more immersive Balmain offering. The Galleria, with its dynamic mix of the world's most innovative and prestigious brands, is the perfect location for us. As Houston's premier luxury shopping destination, it reflects the full universe of Balmain and reinforces our commitment to providing an exceptional retail experience."
The Balmain relocation comes at an ideal moment as the Galleria is completing a multimillion-dollar transformation designed to elevate its ambiance and continue to be a draw for the more than 30 million shoppers and diners that visit the center each year.