Olivier Rousteing Is Leaving Balmain
Olivier Rousteing has announced his departure from Balmain after 14 years as the fashion house’s creative director. His leadership transformed the historic French couture brand into a globally recognized name defined by modernity, inclusivity, and glamour.
A Trailblazing Career
Appointed in April 2011 at the age of 25, Rousteing was the youngest non-founding creative director to lead a major fashion house since Yves Saint Laurent at Dior. He made history as the first Black creative director across all categories at a French fashion brand. Despite the high turnover common among creative directors—over a dozen new appointments just this season—Rousteing’s 14 years made him one of the longest-serving leaders in this role.
“I am deeply proud of all that I’ve accomplished, and profoundly grateful to my exceptional team at Balmain, my chosen family, in a place that has been my home for the past 14 years,” Rousteing said in an official statement. “As I look ahead to the future and the next chapter of my creative journey, I will always hold this treasured time close to my heart.”
Early Career and Background
Rousteing studied at the Ecole Supérieure des Arts et Techniques de la Mode in Paris. Before joining Balmain, his experience was brief but impactful, including five years at Roberto Cavalli in Milan. He began there as an 18-year-old intern and rose to become head of womenswear. In 2009, Balmain hired him as a womenswear designer, leading to his eventual promotion to creative director.
Summary: Olivier Rousteing’s 14-year tenure at Balmain reshaped the house with a focus on inclusiveness and modern glamour, marking a groundbreaking era in French fashion leadership.