PARIS – Olivier Rousteing is stepping down as creative director of Balmain, closing a 14-year chapter of growth and creative audacity that also was among the longest creative tenures in fashion.
His departure was revealed Wednesday by the brand.
“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,” the designer said in a statement.
“My thanks go to Mr. Rachid Mohamed Rachid and [chief executive officer] Matteo Sgarbossa for their unwavering belief in me and for entrusting me with this extraordinary opportunity,” he continued. “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”.
Rousteing joined Balmain in 2009 to head its studio under the tenure of Christophe Decarnin. In 2011, he made history when he was named creative director at the age of 25, becoming the first Black designer at the helm of a French fashion house.
Thanking the exiting designer, Rachid, Mayhoola’s chief executive officer and Balmain’s chairman, declared that “Olivier’s visionary leadership has not only redefined the boundaries of fashion but also inspired a generation with bold creativity, unwavering authenticity and commitment to inclusivity.”
“We are immensely proud of all that has been achieved under his direction and look forward to seeing the next chapter of his journey unfold with the same brilliance and passion,” Rachid continued.
Sgarbossa expressed “deep gratitude” to the designer “for writing such an important chapter in the history” of the house, he said. “Olivier’s contribution and passion over the past years will leave an indelible mark in the history of fashion.”
The designer’s plans could not be immediately learned and the house said a new creative organization would be revealed “in due course.”
