Antonin Tron, The New Creative Director of Balmain

Tron, 41, trained at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp before launching his own label, Atlein, in 2016, he gained experience at several major houses, including Raf Simons, Saint Laurent, Givenchy, and Balenciaga. With Atlein, Tron built a reputation for thoughtful, ethically minded design. He favors recycled or responsibly sourced fabrics, local production, and a slower, more artisanal approach to fashion. His work is defined by precision, purity, and a focus on material rather than spectacle.

That’s why his arrival at Balmain signals a shift from Rousteing’s high-octane glamour to a more understated, fabric-driven vision; marking the beginning of a new artistic direction for the house.

Olivier Rousteing, who joined Balmain in 2011 at just 25 years old, reshaped the brand during the social media era. Under his leadership, Balmain became synonymous with bold silhouettes, celebrity influence, and the global phenomenon known as the “Balmain Army,” which included stars such as Rihanna, Beyoncé, and the Kardashian-Jenner family.

Major moments included the 2015 Balmain x H&M collaboration, one of the most successful designer high-street partnerships, selling out within hours and making the brand accessible to a wider audience.

Rousteing also expanded Balmain’s cultural footprint, creating costumes for the Opéra National de Paris, presenting a standalone haute couture show, and designing a celebrated collection for Jean Paul Gaultier in 2022. As one of the most recognizable designers of his generation his impact on Balmain and modern fashion remains significant.

 “I began this Balmain adventure without knowing what the future would hold.

What an extraordinary story it has been — a love story, a life story.

None of it would ever have been possible without my chosen family, my team, the group, and all the people who believed in me from the very beginning.

Like every story, this one also has an ending. Thank you for your support, your love, and for having lived, season after season, this beautiful Balmain journey with me.

Thank you to Mayhoola for the support and for all the memories that will remain forever engraved in my mind.

Thank you to my team, without whom none of these incredible adventures could have existed.” said Rousteing in his social media departure post.

In the official statement: Mr. Rachid Mohamed Rachid, CEO of Mayhoola and Chairman of Balmain, said: "I extend my sincere thanks to Olivier Rousteing for his extraordinary contribution to Balmain. His visionary leadership has not only redefined the boundaries of fashion, but has also inspired an entire generation with his bold creativity, unwavering authenticity, and commitment to inclusivity. We are immensely proud of everything that has been achieved under his leadership and look forward to the next chapter of his journey, which he will pursue with the same passion and excellence."