On Friday, Olivier Rousteing, the creative director of Balmain, released a stunning look-book featuring designs created in collaboration with Beyoncé.
Titled Renaissance Couture, the collection's theme is based on songs from Beyoncé's album, including "Break My Soul," "Cozy," and "Summer Renaissance." The collection showcases dramatic sculptural pieces such as hammered metal breastplates, 3D-printed bustiers, and feather fireworks, along with luxuriant velvets, embroidered gowns, and even a wearable crystal chandelier. The attention to detail is meticulous, right down to Beyoncé's autograph forming the base of platform heels.
Rousteing admitted that he became singularly obsessed with the album "Renaissance" after its release in 2022. Over several months, while producing separate runway collections, he presented his ideas and worked closely with Beyoncé and her stylist, Marni Senofonte, to create the Renaissance Couture looks. Vogue France has shared images of two additional gowns, one of which Beyoncé wore on the magazine's April 2023 cover.
According to Rousteing, the collaboration was a unique experience that allowed them to experiment and push each other's boundaries without the typical constraints of budgeting, rollout, and marketing plans. The project's unveiling coincides with the singer's upcoming spring and summer world tour.
