Christophe Decarnin to leave Balmain

Decarnin, who is credited with igniting the 2009 trend for sharp shouldered-jackets and dresses, joined Balmain as a designer in 2005 and was named creative director for the label’s women’s ready-to-wear collection in November 2007.

He previously spent seven years as head designer of women’s ready-to-wear at Paco Rabanne. It is not known whether he has another job to go to, or what the date of his departure will be.

Decarnin’s successor has yet to be announced but reports suggest it could be an internal promotional.

Chief executive officer Alain Hivelin said: “Since 1945, the house of Pierre Balmain has been one of the leading French and international luxury brands. Christophe Decarnin’s work with the house’s design team contributed to the success that the brand has enjoyed in recent years.”