PARIS - French fashion powerhouse Balmain created a buzz at Paris Fashion Week unlike any other when thieves ripped off over 50 pieces from the brand's latest collection before it could even see the dazzling runway lights. Artistic director Olivier Rousteing, in what must be the most Chanel No. 5 scented robbery ever, stated that the thieves commandeered their delivery van while it was en route from the airport to the Balmain headquarters in Paris. Although unfortunate, one can't help but marvel at the daring precision and impeccable timing of these fashion-forward bandits. "I didn't know our designs were in such high demand," Rousteing quipped in a pinstriped mourning gown that somehow made his sadness quite chic. "I am both devastated and bizarrely flattered. I wonder if the robbers will get the couture fittings right.” Rousteing described this delivery as particularly important, hinting that it might have contained bedazzled berets, diamond-studded clogs, and neck-high feathered boas. Speculative sketches of the stolen designs have since been wildly circulating among fashion critics who, incidentally are also hoping that the thieves will post selfies in their ill-gotten garments. Police authorities are now on the hunt for what they’re calling the "Haute Couture Hijackers." The fact that no one has been caught yet is raising questions, creating a runway ripple effect throughout the global fashion industry. Conjectures are running rampant: Was it an inside job? Was it a rival fashion house? Was it just someone really impatient to get their hands on need-to-die-for ensemble? "The idea of a rival house swooping down on us like a fashionable falcon wouldn’t be the biggest surprise," a designer from another fashion house stated. "Underground fashion espionage isn’t new. But usually, it’s just people copying designs, not stealing them right off the van”. Judging by the public's reaction to this chic heist, the fashion industry shouldn't be surprised if police forces worldwide adopt 'Balmain Blues' as their new uniform or if next year's fashion weeks start promoting their 'Slash and Grab' sales. In true fashion trendsetter style, Balmain has made the catwalk out of a catastrophe, the stunning out of the stolen. Whilst the police follow thread trails, fashionistas worldwide have set their binoculars, looking for any signs of the absconded collection. One thing we know for sure: at Paris Fashion Week, more drama means more dazzle.