Belgian-born designer Olivier Theyskens launched his first collection in 1997 after abandoning his studies at the famed La Cambre School of visual arts in Brussels. He quickly became known for his gothic glamour. In 2002 Theyskens took over at the house of Rochas, a dusty maison in need of a fresh, youthful eye, and his dramatic, and now more romantic collections, were received with acclaim. However, in 2006 Proctor & Gamble closed the house. Theyskens quickly found a new home at another venerable maison, Nina Ricci, but suffered a similar fate at that house in 2009. After his experiences at Rochas and Nina Ricci the fashion community wondered what the shy young designer's next move would be and whether he would stay in fashion. Theyskens says he was born with the "fashion gene" and can't imagine doing anything else.