Olivier Rousteing becomes fashion godfather of Marangoni Paris

By

Godfrey Deeny

Published
Feb 14, 2022

Olivier Rousteing has agreed to become the “fashion godfather” of Istituto Marangoni in Paris in 2022, creating a privileged collaboration between the artistic director of Balmain and the fashion college.
 

The collaboration between the Marangoni and Balmain will take multiple formats throughout the year, the college explained in a release.
 
In April, Rousteing, artistic director of Balmain for over of a decade, will address 450 students in a special Masterclass, to discuss his journey and answer questions. During the year, Olivier will also reflect with the teaching staff at Marangoni on their different programs offered at the school and ideas on how to develop them.

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“Not so long ago, the most influential people in the fashion world never imagined
that someone like me could find himself at the head of the collections of one of the most emblematic of Paris. But times are changing. The generations that preceded me worked to open doors that have been closed for too long and thanks to them, I was able to enter and be part of a club hitherto as exclusive as it was excluding. I have to honor them and that's why I'm more than determined to keep those doors wide open,” said Rousteing, an adopted son of African heritage who grew up in Bordeaux.
 
His link-up with Marangoni, marks the latest example of top-level mentorship at Marangoni, which in December announced that the acclaimed British editor, stylist and consultant Katie Grand would stage a series of masterclasses and workshops during the first academic semester.
 
In September, during Paris Fashion Week, students will also have the
opportunity to work on the Balmain Fashion Festival, a blend of runway show and live music performances that is a highlight of the French catwalk season. Finally, Maison Balmain will award a scholarship to one student to finance their year in Marangoni.
 
“I want to help future generations and ensure that the French fashion industry reflects diversity and beauty that we see every day in the streets of Paris today. I am proud to partner with Istituto Marangoni France to make this dream a reality,” added Rousteing.