Welcome Back Readers,

I know that I am late delivering the news, but two weeks ago, the fashion industry was placed in a whirlwind when Olivier Rousteing announced he was planning to exit Balmain after 16 years at the brand (14 years as Creative Director and 2 years working at the luxury powerhouse). This came as a shock to many, given that when people think about the French luxury brand, Olivier’s creative vision is often what they think of first, in particular his collaborations with the Kardashian/Jenner family during the years 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2019. The designer was appointed to the role of Creative Director in 2011, making him the first Black designer to lead a major French luxury brand. This announcement will forever remain a significant moment in the history of fashion.

Balmain under Olivier Rousteing’s most iconic and memorable collaborations that defined the brand throughout the years

2014

Balmain collaborated with Kim Kardashian and Kanye West in Spring/Summer 2015. This partnership was iconic and cemented Olivier’s creative vision of where he would take the fashion under his leadership.

2015

Balmain collaborates with Kylie Jenner and Kendall Jenner during Fall 2015 campaign ads. Another successful collaboration for Balmain. During the years of 2012/2013 to 2017, the Kardashian/Jenner family was at their peak, so this collaboration at the time was seen as most iconic.

The Balmain and H&M collaboration was a major success; it generated immense demand for consumers purchasing designer pieces at accessible prices. The campaign featured the then IT models Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Jourdan Dunn, and Agyness Deyn (seen in the Rihanna “We Found Love” music video).

2016

In Kanye West’s “Wolves” music video, many of those on the set (including Kim Kardashian) were wearing the A/W 2016 Balmain collection.

2017

This year was definitely one of the busiest years for Balmain in regard to how many collaborations and brand partnerships there were for the luxury fashion brand.

Kylie Jenner appeared in the Balmain x Beats By Dre headphones collaboration.

Loreal Paris and Balmain partnered, designed 12 couture matte lipstick shades, and created an ad campaign.

This was an iconic brand collaboration for Balmain as, at the time, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was one of the biggest shows to watch and was often known as the “women’s Super Bowl.” So for Balmain to design a range of pieces for the models to wear during the show was major.

Balmain created a memorable ad campaign and collaboration with la Opéra de la Paris.

2018

During Beyoncé’s 2018 Coachella performance, she was seen wearing Balmain as she performed her hit singles in front of the audience. This was the beginning of Olivier creating custom pieces of clothing for Beyoncé’s live performances.

Milla Jovovich appeared in the Fall/Winter 2018 campaign.

2019

The French Luxury brand hosted it’s first Couture fashion show in 16 years. The Chambre Syndicale allowed Oliver Rousteing to showcase his show during the Haute Couture Spring 2019 schedule.

Oliver Rousteing and Kylie Jenner launched a project through the companies that they had creative direction of Balmain x Kylie Cosmetics, which debuted at the Balmain Spring/Summer 2020 show.

Cara Delevingne and Oliver Rousteing collaborated and designed a hand bag line for the luxury brand and a campaign.

2021

To commemorate Oliver Rousteing 10 year anniversary as Creative Director of Balmain, during the luxury brands Spring/Summer 2022 collection. An army of Supermodels graced the stage, including (Naomi Campbell, Carla Bruni and Mila Jovovich).

2023

This look was iconically memorable couture piece by fans and concert goers. Beyonce was dressed in a custom Balmain outfit for her Renaissance tour.

2024

For the Lion King film, Disney and Balmain collaborated to design “The Lion King collection”.

Did I miss any of the brand’s most memorable moments?

What are your thoughts on the French luxury brand, and what direction do you think the new creative director will take Balmain?