In a startling revelation, Olivier Rousteing, the celebrated designer behind Balmain, disclosed via Instagram that a truck ferrying garments for the brand's imminent Paris Fashion Week presentation was brazenly hijacked, resulting in the loss of 50 pivotal Balmain pieces.
"The day began with promise, with fittings for my impending show. Yet, as hours unfolded, I was met with the staggering news of our delivery being intercepted and the vehicle whisked away. Mercifully, the driver emerged unscathed," shared Rousteing, resonating with his vast following of 9.8 million.
Despite the setback, the showcase set for September 27 by the iconic Eiffel Tower remains undeterred. Rousteing conveyed his anguish, stating, "This act goes beyond mere theft – it's a blatant disregard for the countless hours and relentless efforts of artisans, suppliers, and my team. Nevertheless, we remain undaunted and resolute in our passion."
Official remarks from Balmain were still awaited at the time of reporting.
Expressions of solidarity poured in for the designer. Notably, Simon Porte Jacquemus sent a simple, heartfelt message: "Strength ❤️". Similarly, words of encouragement were proffered by many from the fashion fraternity, including Jennifer Lopez’s stylist, Mariel Haenn.
Rousteing's tenure at Balmain is punctuated by his grandiose shows, sometimes boasting over 100 distinct looks, mirroring the grandiosity of music festivals more than traditional fashion displays. However, he recently transitioned to a more subdued presentation, hosting a mere 250 invitees and showcasing just 52 ensembles.
In a concerning trend, vehicle heists in France witnessed a sharp uptick in 2022. Official statistics reveal a troubling 3.5% increase in such crimes in the Parisian region, underscoring a broader national concern.
