Under the impressive soaring metalwork of Paris’ historic Carreau du Temple, the Balmain backstage was a beautifully managed chaos. Models’ hair and make-up was prepared by Sam McKnight and Diane Kendal, the racks and racks of clothing and accessories were overseen by the Balmain team, dancers stretched and lept —all while Olivier Rousteing greeted friends of the house and went over the collection with the world’s leading fashion editors, explaining his process and inspirations, while letting them carefully examine the many impressive details of each design.