Not only was it Balmain’s return to an IRL audience (bye-bye Zoom front row), but it was also Olivier Rousteing’s ten year anniversary at the helm of the heritage fashion house — so naturally, he had to go all out. And that he did, bringing back the brand’s namesake Balmain Festival.
For a show so big, an opening act must transcend the audience’s expectations, and with an A-list possé like #BalmainArmy, expectations were already set pretty high. As the stadium slowly began to illuminate fan chatter dimmed and phones raised ready to capture the opening moment. However, Rousteing’s opening number wasn’t one of visual satisfaction but one to listen to.
A fluid and dexterous voice filled the theater, so distinct that fans automatically caught on (noted by the screams that followed shortly after). Balmain’s opening was a heartfelt letter read by longtime friend, confidant, and “alter ego” Beyoncé Knowles-Carter. The multifaceted music icon congratulates Rousteing for what is undoubtedly a different (and much necessary) chapter for the Maison.
That je ne sais qoui about her makes her the perfect option to kickoff the ten-year anniversary celebration and Spring/Summer 2022 show. Beyoncé, who often wears Rousteing’s Balmain for appearances and her own Instagram shoots vocalized exactly why Balmain Festival is more than just a runway event on the Paris Fashion Week calendar.
Although, an in-person appearance from the Queen herself would have really shaken the audience, her monologue to the avante-garde designer was heartfelt and meaningful. It prefaced a glorious night filled with a star-studded cast of models including Naomi Campbell, Carla Bruni, Adut Akech, and many more, closed out with a performance by Doja Cat.
If you haven’t already (or if you just want to watch it again, and again) check out the Balmain Spring/Summer 2022 show below.
