Olivier Rousteing Leaves the House of Balmain
Olivier Rousteing is parting ways with Balmain after fourteen years of redefining the brand with bold designs and glamour. The announcement was made on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, via Instagram.
Joining Balmain in 2011 at the age of 25, Rousteing was the youngest creative director of a major Parisian fashion house since Yves Saint Laurent at Dior, and the first Black designer to lead a historic French fashion house.
He quickly transformed Balmain into a cultural force, building the famed "Balmain Army," blending power and glitter with sculpted shoulders and couture armor worn by celebs like Rihanna and Kim Kardashian. Under his guidance, the brand's revenue grew tenfold, approaching €300 million, while also reviving couture and launching a beauty line with Estée Lauder.
"It's curtains for one of fashion's most flamboyant duos... Balmain and Olivier Rousteing are parting ways."
"Arriving in 2011 at just 25 years old, he was the youngest creative director of a major Parisian fashion house since Yves Saint Laurent at Dior, and the first Black designer to head a historic French fashion house."
At 40, Rousteing steps down, leaving behind a legacy of boldness, diversity, and elevated elegance. Balmain is set to announce a new creative leadership soon.
Summary: Olivier Rousteing ends a transformative 14-year era at Balmain, having elevated the brand’s global glamor and financial success through innovative design and cultural impact.