For their landmark Spring/Summer 2019 couture collection show in 16 years in Paris, Balmain used over 1 million Swarovski crystals designed by Balmain's Creative Director and couturier Oliver Rousteing. He designed mini-dresses, trousers and jump suits that had a futuristic look. They looked sculptural and he used bibi hats and bags among accessories.

Rousteing commented: “Couture remains as exclusive today as it has always been – a luxury well beyond the reach of most. Today’s collection relies on more than one million Swarovski crystal pearls, stones and beads for the intricate embroideries and embellishments. By pushing myself, my team and our atelier to the very limit to create these aspirational designs, I know that Balmain will be able to learn from these techniques, lessons and innovations. That is the great strength and incredible heritage of couture and why so many of Paris great houses have traditionally relied on the rigors of couture to advance the designs of all collections.” 

The talented Creative Director broke the hiatus in front of 130 guests with a collection that used pastel hues. Swarovski first collaborated with Pierre Balmain in the 1940s. Over the past 74 years, Swarovski has provided the fashion house with millions of stones.