[OPINION] Why Mocking ROSÉ as a ‘Plus One’ Misses the Mark? A Deep Dive into the Power of Partnership

ROSÉ UPDATE – May 16, 2023 KST

Challenging the “plus one” narrative, ROSÉ’s influential role as Saint Laurent’s global ambassador and her dynamic partnership with creative director Anthony Vaccarello redefine the conventions of the fashion industry. Dive into this analysis to discover how their strategic collaboration reshapes the brand’s global image and why ROSÉ should be recognized as far more than a mere “plus one”.

1. Introduction: Redefining ROSÉ ‘Plus One’ Narrative

In the world of high fashion and glittering events, it’s disheartening to see talented individuals like ROSÉ, global ambassador for Saint Laurent, get relegated to the status of a “plus one”. This term, often used to refer to an accompanying guest at an event, is frequently colored with a negative connotation, suggesting the guest is somehow less important than the primary invitee. But this narrative fails to grasp the bigger picture and the true significance of such partnerships, particularly in the context of ROSÉ and Anthony Vaccarello, the creative director of Saint Laurent.

ROSÉ’s recent Instagram post, announcing her invitation to the 76th Annual Cannes Film Festival alongside Vaccarello, has once again stirred up the “plus one” narrative. This is not the first time she’s been the target of such insinuations; similar comments were made when she attended the Met Gala in 2021 as Vaccarello’s guest. What these critics overlook, however, is the powerful symbiosis of their partnership, the strength of their collaborative efforts, and the influence they collectively wield within the fashion industry.

In the spotlight of these prestigious events, ROSÉ is not merely an accessory to Vaccarello. She is a key representative of Saint Laurent, an ambassador in the truest sense of the word. Her role goes beyond mere attendance; she serves as an embodiment of the brand, reflecting its style, ethos, and aesthetic to the world. Dismissing her as a “plus one” is a significant misinterpretation of her vital contributions to the brand and her powerful role within the industry.

What’s more, this partnership extends beyond the red carpet. With the launch of Saint Laurent Productions, a groundbreaking venture by Vaccarello, the brand is boldly stepping into the realm of film production. The close professional relationship between Vaccarello and ROSÉ could offer exciting new avenues for collaboration and mutual growth, further reinforcing the significance of their association.

The narrative of ROSÉ as a “plus one” is not only reductive, but it also fails to appreciate the strategic nature of these partnerships. It’s high time we shift this perspective and recognize the powerful synergy between ROSÉ and Vaccarello. It’s not about who’s the invitee and who’s the “plus one”; it’s about how they jointly represent and enhance the brand they both serve. We must move beyond superficial labels and value the profound impact of these collaborations within the fashion industry.

2. Highlighting ROSÉ Power of Partnership: Key Points

Moving forward, let’s dispel the misunderstanding and examine the key elements that make ROSÉ and Anthony Vaccarello’s partnership such a success for the Saint Laurent brand:

1). Shifting the ‘Plus One’ Narrative

The first step is understanding that the term “plus one” does not imply lesser importance or value. In the case of ROSÉ, her attendance at high-profile events, like the 76th Annual Cannes Film Festival, as a guest of Vaccarello is not a sign of being just an accompaniment. As the global ambassador of Saint Laurent, ROSÉ is a significant figure in the fashion industry, embodying and projecting the brand’s image at these events.

2). Synergy Over Solo Stardom

The term “plus one” implies a partnership, a mutual decision to attend together that strengthens their collaborative image. Far from being a slight, it underlines the symbiotic relationship between the creative director and the global ambassador. ROSÉ’s role amplifies the brand’s visibility while the brand provides a platform for ROSÉ to extend her global influence.

3). Deepening Professional Relationships

A relationship between a brand’s creative director and its global ambassador is ideally more than a professional association. It involves a deep understanding of each other’s vision and a close collaboration. ROSÉ and Vaccarello’s bond reflects a holistic and integrated approach to brand representation.

4). Authentic Representation

The close relationship between ROSÉ and Vaccarello allows an authentic and effective representation of the brand. Vaccarello, aware of ROSÉ’s style and preferences, can tailor his creations to best suit her, further enhancing the brand’s image.

5). Elevating Brand Identity

ROSÉ, in her role as a global ambassador, effectively communicates the brand’s ethos and values to the public. This not only elevates the brand’s identity but also makes her ambassadorship more impactful.

6). A Model Relationship

The close relationship between ROSÉ and Vaccarello serves as an excellent model for how a brand ambassador and creative director’s relationship should be. It illustrates a win-win situation, enhancing the brand’s relatability to the public and its global presence.

In conclusion, referring to ROSÉ as a “plus one” should be seen as a testament to the close and productive relationship she shares with Vaccarello, rather than a derogatory term. It signifies the depth of their collaboration, which transcends professional boundaries and contributes significantly to the brand’s success.

Let’s shift the narrative around “plus one” to appreciate the importance of these dynamic, mutually beneficial relationships that drive the success of global brands like Saint Laurent. The narrative should not be about “plus one”, but about “plus value”.

3. Understanding ROSÉ’s Role: A Closer Look through Q&A

Now, let’s make it easier to understand by going through this Q&A:

1). Why is it wrong to label ROSÉ as merely a “plus one” at high-profile events?

Labeling ROSÉ as a “plus one” minimizes her influential position as Saint Laurent’s global ambassador. Her role goes beyond just being a guest—she embodies and projects the brand’s image at these events. So, her attendance should be seen as an active representation of Saint Laurent, rather than being relegated to the status of a “plus one”.

2). What does the term “plus one” really imply in the context of ROSÉ and Vaccarello’s relationship?

In the context of their partnership, “plus one” signifies a mutual decision to attend events together, strengthening their collaborative image. It highlights the symbiotic relationship between the creative director and the global ambassador, where each enhances the other’s visibility and influence.

3) How does the relationship between a brand’s creative director and its global ambassador go beyond a professional association?

A relationship between a creative director and a global ambassador ideally involves a deep understanding of each other’s vision and close collaboration. ROSÉ and Vaccarello’s bond is indicative of this holistic and integrated approach to brand representation.

4). How does their close relationship facilitate an authentic representation of the brand?

Vaccarello, being aware of ROSÉ’s style and preferences, can tailor his creations to best suit her. This level of personalization enhances the brand’s image and makes for a more authentic representation of the brand.

5). How does ROSÉ’s role as a global ambassador elevate the brand’s identity?

As a global ambassador, ROSÉ communicates the brand’s ethos and values to the public. This communication elevates the brand’s identity, making her ambassadorship more impactful.

6). Why is the relationship between ROSÉ and Vaccarello considered a model for how a brand ambassador and creative director’s relationship should be?

Their relationship exemplifies a win-win situation, where the brand’s relatability to the public and its global presence are enhanced. It illustrates the importance of a close relationship between a brand ambassador and a creative director in achieving these goals.

7). Doesn’t the term “plus one” inherently imply secondary importance or a lack of individual merit?

While the term “plus one” might be perceived as such in some contexts, it’s crucial to note that in the realm of high-profile events, “plus one” can represent strategic partnerships. It’s not solely about individual importance but the connection and shared vision between two individuals. ROSÉ attending as Anthony Vaccarello’s guest is indicative not of lesser importance but of their professional synergy.

8). Shouldn’t a global ambassador independently garner invitations to these events, instead of relying on the creative director?

The roles of a global ambassador and a creative director are inherently intertwined, especially in the fashion industry. They collaboratively work to enhance the brand’s image. Their joint presence at events can be a strategic decision to showcase unity and a shared vision, rather than a reliance on one or the other.

9). If ROSÉ is truly a successful ambassador, wouldn’t she not need to accompany anyone to these events?

Success as an ambassador is not measured by solitary appearances but by effective brand representation. Attending events with the creative director can enhance the brand message and demonstrate a cohesive front, further testifying to ROSÉ’s success as a global ambassador.

10). Are ROSÉ and Anthony Vaccarello dating?

No, ROSÉ and Anthony Vaccarello are not dating. Anthony Vaccarello is openly gay and happily married to Arnaud Michaux, who works with him in the YSL atelier. In spring 2021, the couple announced on his Instagram account that they have a child named Luca. Recently, ROSÉ reposted a picture of her walking hand in hand with baby Luca in Anthony’s home. Their relationship is purely professional, with a deep respect and collaboration between the two as Saint Laurent’s creative director and global ambassador, respectively.

4. Conclusion: Moving Beyond ROSÉ as a ‘Plus One’

In conclusion, it’s time to discard the narrow interpretation of ROSÉ as a mere “plus one” and appreciate the depth and scope of her role as a global ambassador for Saint Laurent. The strength of her collaboration with Anthony Vaccarello, their mutual respect, and the powerful representation of the brand they collectively offer, transcends any simplistic labels.

Attending high-profile events together is a strategic decision that strengthens their professional synergy and amplifies the visibility of the brand. This goes far beyond the traditional concept of a “plus one”. ROSÉ’s significant contributions to the fashion industry and her pivotal role in representing Saint Laurent deserve recognition and respect.

The narrative surrounding the “plus one” concept should evolve to acknowledge the significance of these strategic partnerships. Let’s celebrate ROSÉ for the influential figure she is, and not reduce her to the status of a “plus one”. It’s a testament to her position, influence, and the powerful partnership she shares with Vaccarello.

If you hold a different opinion or have further insights on this matter, feel free to share your arguments in the comment section below. Your perspectives are valued and welcome in this ongoing conversation. Let’s continue to dialogue, learn, and grow together in our understanding of the dynamic fashion industry and the significant roles individuals like ROSÉ play within it.