Bretman Rock’s Outfit for the Balmain Show Paid Homage to Prince and Farrah Fawcett

“I’m gonna cry,” Bretman Rock said upon seeing his glam for the Balmain spring 2023 show for the first time. But be sure that any tears the social media sensation shed were those of joy. Rock was tapped to host the brand’s pre-show TikTok live, giving fans a look into the backstage magic that goes into producing a show as big as Balmain Fest, which comprised couture, womenswear, and menswear collections. “The most challenging part of hosting the live show was that there were so many busy, moving parts taking place behind the scenes, and I had to just roll with the punches,” Rock says. “But it was honestly so fun to just lean into the chaos. I really got to show the full backstage experience, and the realness of the prep work that goes into the final show.”

To get ready for this task, Rock arrived early at the venue, which was large enough to seat the approximately 7000 guests, for glam. For makeup, he wanted something “soft but grungy” and a “Farrah Fawcett blowout” for hair. While getting into his white wide-leg trousers and a white tuxedo top with lace paneling, Rock sang a few bars of “Purple Rain.” He said he felt like a mix of Prince, Freddie Mercury, Jackie Chan, and Fawcett—what more could you ask for as you make your Paris Fashion Week debut?

While taking in the three-part show, Rock found himself drawn to the accessories as well as the flame-prints that closed out the collection. Of the black finale dress with fire detailing licking up the sides, Rock said, “Best believe I’ll be wearing that dress one day… I’m manifesting it!” Above, watch Rock get ready for the Balmain Fest.