Olivier Rousteing has been formally appointed as Rabanne’s creative director, marking “a significant new step in Rabanne’s evolution,” the Puig-owned house said on Tuesday. The former creative director of Balmain, who stepped down in November 2025 after 14 years, will stage his first show for the house at Paris Fashion Week in March for Fall/Winter 2027. He succeeds Julien Dossena, who exited the brand after 13 years.
“Joining Rabanne is a tremendous honor. This is a house that has always challenged convention, transforming bold ideas into creations that have shaped fashion history. Its spirit of innovation, craftsmanship, and fearless creativity has inspired generations, and today it inspires me,” Rousteing said in a statement.
He went on to recognize Dossena’s “remarkable creative legacy”. “His vision has redefined the house for a new generation while remaining deeply respectful of its pioneering spirit. I have great admiration for what he has built and for the powerful dialogue he created between Rabanne’s heritage and contemporary fashion.”
Ana Trias, president, prestige and fashion brands of Puig, added: “Olivier Rousteing’s creative vision is bold, magnetic, and deeply connected to the energy of today. His unique ability to create fashion that celebrates confidence and self-expression makes him a natural choice for Rabanne. With Olivier, we are opening a new chapter for the house.”
Unexpectedly, the announcement came on Bastille Day, France’s national holiday. In the portrait, Rousteing holds Rabanne’s iconic chainmail in one hand, with silver metal mesh, as well as a pen and notebook on the table in front of him.
Rousteing’s time at Balmain was defined by a bold, intricately detailed aesthetic that’s likely suited to a house synonymous with the iconic metallic dress. Now aged 40, he already has 15 years of experience as creative director under his belt: when Rousteing was handed the Balmain job in 2011, he became the youngest non-founding designer to lead a major Paris house since Yves Saint Laurent was appointed at Dior.
During his tenure, Rousteing spearheaded the creation of the ‘Balmain Army’, a diverse and influential community of models, influencers, and celebrities that included figures such as the Kardashians. In a celebrity-driven era, he brings both his relationships and social media firepower to the house of Rabanne. Rousteing has 9.4 million Instagram followers. Rabanne, by comparison, has 1.9 million.
There’s also his strong growth record: during his tenure at Balmain, the house experienced a tenfold increase in revenue. Plus, Rousteing has already worked with a Puig-owned house — albeit for just one couture season — as a guest designer for Jean Paul Gaultier in 2022.
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