In a dazzling display at Paris Fashion Week, Olivier Rousteing, the long-time creative director of Balmain, paid a heartfelt tribute to his African heritage. Rousteing, who has become increasingly vocal about his roots, showcased a stunning creation that blended his French upbringing with his Ethiopian and Somali ancestry.
On Sunday, American supermodel Gigi Hadid graced the Vogue World runway in a breathtaking dress designed by Rousteing. Vogue World celebrated a century of French fashion, integrating elements of sports like cycling and gymnastics, and attracted hundreds of celebrities in glamorous outfits. Rousteing described his creation for Hadid as fitting for “the new goddess of the fashion world.”
The dress featured a billowing blue skirt and a draped, armor-like gold bustier. The blue skirt is a nod to the French flag and a color historically significant to Balmain, while the gold bustier drew inspiration from Marianne de France, a symbol of strength from the French Revolution. Rousteing emphasized the importance of his African heritage in his work.
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“It feels really quite important to me because of my mix of cultures,” he told Vogue. “I am from Bordeaux in the South of France, but I was adopted, with origins in Ethiopia and Somalia. I was born and raised in France, but I have these African roots and it’s an honor to show that side of French culture.”
Rousteing’s African influence has been evident in his recent works. At this year’s MET Gala, he designed a stunning nude gown for South African singer and Grammy winner Tyla, which received widespread acclaim. Last year, he unveiled a resort collection dedicated to the beauty and culture of Egypt, reflecting a long-held fascination with the continent.
With a deeper understanding of his heritage, Rousteing’s African roots have become integral to his creative vision. His latest creation at Paris Fashion Week is a testament to his ability to blend his diverse cultural influences, creating designs that resonate on a global stage.
