Celine

Established in Paris in 1945 by Céline and Richard Vipiana, Celine began as a modest children’s shoemaking operation. Yet, as it entered the 1960s, the brand transformed into a ready-to-wear powerhouse, defining itself through luxe sportswear marked by a couture-like finish. This pivot laid the foundation for what would become a defining influence in luxury fashion.

Throughout its storied history, Celine has seen several pivotal transformations under various creative directors. American designer Michael Kors took the helm in the late 1990s, propelling the brand with his distinctive flair. However, it was Phoebe Philo who, after joining in 2007, steered Celine into new territory. Philo’s tenure reintroduced the fashion world to minimalism—stripped-down yet powerful, her designs offered a new way for women to compose their style with maturity and modernity. This approach not only realigned the industry’s values but also cemented Philo’s status as a seminal figure in fashion.

In late 2017, Hedi Slimane took over as creative director, initiating a bold rebranding that resonated across the fashion landscape. His first acts included dropping the accent from the é in Céline, mirroring his controversial rebranding at Saint Laurent. Slimane introduced Celine’s first menswear line and revisited the brand’s 1970s bourgeois aesthetic. His collections, infused with historical nods, brought a fresh relevance to the brand’s heritage elements, such as pleated skirts and tweed blazers, reinvigorating them for a new generation.

Today, Celine stands as a testament to its enduring appeal, seamlessly blending its rich heritage with contemporary influences under LVMH’s ownership since 1988. The brand continues to be a significant player in the luxury fashion industry, consistently influencing trends and setting standards for elegance and sophistication.