French designer Olivier Rousteing has been appointed creative director of Paco Rabanne, the Spanish luxury fashion house announced Tuesday (July 14).
"Rabanne is delighted to welcome Olivier Rousteing as the house's new creative director. His first collection will be presented in March 2027," the brand said in a post on Instagram.
Rousteing made his own social media pronouncement, showing a screenshot of messages exchanged with his mother, in which he confirmed his appointment, accompanied by the comment in English: "Let the journey begin".
"Joining Rabanne is a tremendous honour. This is a house that has always challenged convention, transforming bold ideas into creations that have shaped fashion history."
Read more: Balmain’s Olivier Rousteing steps down, ending an era of star-powered style
Rousteing saluted "the remarkable creative legacy" which he said predecessor Julien Dossena was leaving behind.
"For me, fashion is about emotion, identity, and the confidence to express who we truly are. That belief feels deeply connected to Paco Rabanne and his enduring vision of freedom and individuality," said Rousteing.
Dossena stepped down as Rabanne's creative director in June after 13 years at the helm.
Rousteing, who had been in charge of Balmain's collections for nearly 15 years, left the French brand in November 2025.
In recent weeks, he had posted social media messages indicating that he had been taking care of his health in recent months and now felt ready for a new challenge.
Read more: A look back at Olivier Rousteing’s defining red-carpet years with Balmain
Known for his glamour and pop designs, he has some 10 million followers on Instagram and has sought to make luxury fashion more accessible to young fans.
In 2015, he notably designed a collection for a collaboration between Balmain and H&M. In 2022, Jean-Paul Gaultier entrusted him with the creative direction of one of his collections.
In May, he designed the dress which singer Beyonce wore for the Met Gala in New York. – AFP
