Olivier Rousteing didn’t just lead Balmain — he became Balmain. As he steps away after 14 years, we revisit the moments, collections, and cultural shifts that made his era unforgettable.
Olivier Rousteing has stepped down as Creative Director of Balmain, bringing to a close a remarkable 14-year chapter in the house’s history. The announcement came on 25 November 2025, marking the end of a period defined by bold creativity, cultural impact and a reimagined Balmain identity. The announcement also brings to a close one of the longest and most influential — yet disruptive — designer tenures of the 21st century.
The remarkable journey of Olivier Rousteing
Olivier Rousteing first joined Balmain in 2009. After working with Christophe Decarnin for two years, he became Creative Director at 25 in 2011. This milestone made him one of the youngest designers to lead a major French fashion house — and notably, the first Black creative director at a European luxury label.
lazyloadHis aesthetic soon became signature: sharp military tailoring, powerful shoulders, gold hardware, rich textiles, and a glamorous attitude that merged couture with pop culture. One of his defining achievements was the creation of the Balmain Army — a collective of socially savvy models, musicians, and cultural figures who embodied the brand’s spirit. Beyoncé, Zendaya, Gigi Hadid, Kim Kardashian, and Hongjoong of ATEEZ were among those who helped position Balmain at the centre of fashion, music, celebrity, and internet culture.
Balmain CEO Matteo Sgarbossa acknowledged Rousteing’s lasting influence, saying:
“I would like to express my deep gratitude to Olivier for writing such an important chapter in the history of Balmain. His passion and contribution over the past years will leave an indelible mark on fashion.”
Rousteing’s final collection for the house was Spring/Summer 2026, shown in October 2025 during Balmain’s 80th anniversary celebration — a fitting farewell that honoured both the brand’s legacy and his own.
In his farewell message, Rousteing reflected on his journey with warmth and appreciation:
“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. 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.”
Read also: Donatella Versace steps down as Versace’s creative director after three decades
A look back at Olivier Rousteing’s most memorable collections
Over his 14 years at Balmain, Rousteing delivered some truly defining fashion moments. Here are four standout collections that capture his evolution, influence, and unmistakable design language:
Fall/Winter 2015: H&M collaboration
The collaboration that broke the internet. When H&M revealed Olivier Rousteing as their guest designer, the hype was instant. The collection reimagined his signature beaded mini dresses and sharp military jackets at more accessible prices. Fans camped outside stores worldwide, and the drop sold out in minutes. It was a cultural moment — Balmain’s high-glam aesthetic went from red carpets to the streets, making luxury feel within reach for the first time.
Spring/Summer 2022: 10th anniversary celebration
Amid the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in Paris, Rousteing suffered severe second- and third-degree burns across the entire front of his body. The accident occurred when a faulty gas fireplace exploded, engulfing him in flames for several agonising seconds. Following the incident and his recovery, the show embraced themes of healing and resilience, featuring corseted silhouettes, bandage-inspired motifs, and symbols of rebirth. Marking a decade at Balmain, it fused rigorous tailoring with emotional depth, earning praise for vulnerability amid glamour. The diverse casting and narrative-driven presentation solidified his role in redefining luxury as inclusive and empowering.
Renaissance couture capsule (2023) with Beyoncé
In 2023, Rousteing partnered with Beyoncé on the Renaissance Couture capsule — a collection directly inspired by the album’s sound and visuals. The 16-look series drew from the album’s tracks, delivering futuristic metallics, crystal-embellished bodysuits, and architectural gowns worn onstage by the icon. It was a beautiful meeting of two creative worlds — fashion and music speaking the same language, in perfect sync.
His debut: Spring/Summer 2012
From his very first Spring/Summer 2012 show, he established what would become his signature: structured lines, ornate detailing, and a bold, regal attitude. He refined Balmain’s existing structure and inserted his own sense of youth, diversity, and global glamour. Even then, it was clear: he wasn’t here to just maintain a legacy. He was here to redefine it.
Olivier Rousteing’s time at Balmain was more than a creative era — it was a homecoming of identity, voice, and vision. He widened the lens of luxury, redefining who it could speak to and who could see themselves within it. From Paris runways to Seoul stages, and Los Angeles red carpets, his influence is unmistakable.
As he steps into his next chapter, his influence clearly doesn’t end here. And in his own words:
“Today, I leave the House of Balmain with my eyes still wide open — open to the future and to the beautiful adventures ahead, adventures in which all of you will have a place.”
