Olivier Rousteing has parted ways with fashion house Balmain.

The designer entered the fashion industry with determination and risk. According to an interview with Vogue, at 18, he left the fashion school after six months. This decision was also not understood by his parents, who had already been perplexed by his pursuit of fashion.

“I fought because I had no school or background behind me, just determination and desire,” he told the outlet in a November 2021 interview.

That decision paved the way for a historic appointment at Balmain at age 24 as its creative director in April 2011. Before this, he had worked under his predecessor, Christophe Decarnin, for two years, notes Vogue. According to a separate Vogue article, he was the “youngest non-founding designer to lead a major Paris house” since Yves Saint Laurent’s appointment at Dior at age 21. That’s not all. Rousteing was the first Black individual to become a creative director at a major European house, the Business of Fashion reports.

Rousteing has remained with Balmain for over a decade and has been a disruptor in the fashion industry, helping the company strengthen its positioning in the business world. Balmain grew from over $34 million in annual revenue during Rousteing’s first year to over $344 million by 2024, per Vogue.

Rousteing Steps Down From Balmain

Rousteing now makes his exit after 14 years.

“Like every story, this one also has an ending … I arrived at 24 with my eyes wide open and the determination to persevere, always,” he expressed in a post shared on Instagram. “Today, I leave the House of Balmain with my eyes still wide open — open to the future and to the beautiful adventures ahead, adventures in which all of you will have a place. A new era, a new beginning, a new story. THANK YOU.”

Rachid Mohamed Rachid, Balmain chairman and CEO of Mayhoola (owner of Balmain), commented, per Vogue:

“Olivier’s visionary leadership has not only redefined the boundaries of fashion but also inspired a generation with bold creativity, unwavering authenticity, and commitment to inclusivity. We are immensely proud of all that has been achieved under his direction and look forward to seeing the next chapter of his journey unfold with the same brilliance and passion.”