Kristen Stewart is new face of Balenciaga

PARIS, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- Hollywood actress Kristen Stewart is to be the face of the newest Balenciaga fragrance for women, it was announced Friday.

The perfume is to be introduced this fall.

The "Twilight" star follows Charlotte Gainsbourg, who has represented Balenciaga Paris, the company's first fragrance, since 2010.

"I love Balenciaga fashion because it is incredibly bold and forceful, yet feminine and sexy. I found there was a real creative freedom about this project. I feel blessed and really proud of being the face of this new fragrance," Stewart said in a statement.

"Kristen Stewart embodies the modernity of the new Balenciaga fragrance with her unique sensibility and intelligence. From her early appearance in 'Panic Room' to her independent choice of 'Welcome to the Rileys,' I've always sensed her progressive character. In 2006, I invited her to appear in a project shot by Bruce Weber,"

said Nicolas Ghesquiere, creative director of Balenciaga. "Since then, I've always wished to collaborate with her further, knowing that she shares the radical spirit of Balenciaga."