Balmain to launch diffusion range

Balmain is to launch a diffusion range called Pierre Balmain, named after the label's founder.

The French luxury house, which has recently been in the press concerning the exit of its creative director Christophe Decarnin, is to launch the new label for Spring Summer 2012.

Licensed by Italian group Ittierre SpA, the new line, which consists of both mens and womenswear, will be designed by a separate team, but under the watchful eye of Balmain's new head designer Olivier Rousteing.

The first collection will debut in September at New York fashion week.