For an “it” brand with a ton of aesthetic interest and inspiration in its ready-to-wear, Balmain just can’t seem to lock up its shoe and handbag game. The brand’s first bags were largely disappointing, and recent shoes have faired about as well.

One of Balmain’s latest offerings, the Balmain Crystal Chain Sandal, is certainly no better. It has about as inspired as a prom shoe from 2003, but at least your average prom shoe doesn’t cost $2300. And yet, I’m sure that this shoe will sell out before it ever hits a sale rack. It’s Balmain.

I don’t dislike the crystal-studded chains, but it’s hardly the first time that I’ve seen such a thing in the past year, and for the money, I’d expect a much more inventive implementation than a few straps that literally make up the entire shoe. There’s absolutely no personality to be found here, and the only message the design seems to be sending is “I have too much money and not enough taste.” Buy through Bergdorf Goodman for $2300.

  • merve

    Its funny Guiseppe Zanotti designs the most fabulous shoes for his own collection and comes out with this stuff for Balmain. Its like he wants only his own brand to be amazing. Who would pay 2300 for this crystal chain mess? It looks like a reject from the Imelda Marcos’ bejewelled shoe collection. And those boots he made with all the buckles few seasons back were all over the shoe dept in the sales when i was in NY marked down to 1000 dollars from 3000 or smthg ridiculous. If someone wants to grab a bargain in the sales they are not gonna pay 1000 dollars for Balmain boots that scream last season. Anyway im over my rant :)

  • 19yearslater

    I really don’t like the style of this shoe, the thin little strap at front, all of those chains on the ankle. I could buy something just like this at Off Broadway Shoe Warehouse but I wouldn’t.

  • mochababe73

    If GZ is creating those shoes, Balmain can reject them. I don’t blame Guiseppe, I blame whomever has the final say on what designs get sold.
    Personally, I wouldn’t buy them. It looks like something a pole technician would wear.

  • Laureen

    These look ghetto.

Neiman Marcus