ANTONIN TRON APPOINTED NEW CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF BALMAIN FOLLOWING OLIVIER ROUSTEING’S DEPARTURE

Balmain embarks on a new creative chapter under the direction of Antonin Tron. The French designer takes on the challenge of redefining the legacy of the Parisian maison.

French fashion house Balmain has announced the appointment of Antonin Tron as its new creative director, succeeding Olivier Rousteing, who steps down after 14 years at the helm a period during which he multiplied the brand’s revenues tenfold and solidified its global status in the luxury industry.

Tron, 41, is best known as the founder of the Paris-based label Atlein, recognized for its mastery of draping and precise craftsmanship. His appointment marks the beginning of a new era for Balmain, one that aims to merge the house’s artisanal heritage with a contemporary and responsible vision. His first collection for the maison will be unveiled in March 2026 during Paris Fashion Week, for the Fall/Winter 2026–27 season.

“Balmain has a truly inspiring history. At its core, the house embodies savoir-faire, culture, sensuality, and elegance,” Tron said in a statement. “I deeply identify with all of this and feel privileged to build upon such an incredible legacy.”

“Balmain has a truly inspiring history. At its core, the house embodies savoir-faire, culture, sensuality, and elegance,” Tron said in a statement. “I deeply identify with all of this and feel privileged to build upon such an incredible legacy.”

Trained at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, Tron developed his career at leading fashion houses including Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, and Balenciaga, working under Nicolas Ghesquière, Alexander Wang, and Demna. In 2016, he launched Atlein, a label that earned him the ANDAM First Collections Prize and caught the attention of retailers such as Bergdorf Goodman and Galeries Lafayette.

According to Balmain CEO Matteo Sgarbossa, Tron’s approach “rooted in the art of draping and the physicality of fabric” continues founder Pierre Balmain’s belief that “couture is the architecture of movement.” Meanwhile, Rachid Mohamed Rachid, Chairman of parent group Mayhoola, said Tron “brings an artistic sensitivity and thoughtful approach that make him an exciting talent for the house.”

Tron’s appointment comes amid a period of restructuring at Balmain, following Sgarbossa’s arrival as CEO in April, tasked with accelerating the brand’s global expansion and strengthening its position in the luxury market.

Known for his sensitive approach to femininity and commitment to sustainability, Tron is expected to reinterpret Balmain’s DNA without losing its essence of elegance, structure, and sensuality. His debut collection is anticipated as one of the most awaited moments of Paris Fashion Week in 2026.