Hedi Slimane’s chapter at Celine has officially closed. After seven years that redefined the brand and shook up the fashion scene, the news dropped with a succinct statement from LVMH: Slimane is stepping down as artistic director.
“Under his creative and artistic direction, Celine has experienced exceptional growth and established itself as an iconic French couture house,” the statement read.
Slimane’s tenure was nothing short of transformative. He didn’t just tweak Celine’s aesthetic; he overhauled it, introducing menswear for the first time in the label’s history and launching high-end perfume and beauty lines. His vision reconnected Celine to its Parisian roots, embracing bourgeois style with a modern, edgy twist that resonated with a new generation.
But as one era ends, another begins. Enter Michael Rider, the American designer returning to Celine as the new artistic director. Rider, who honed his craft under Phoebe Philo during her celebrated stint at the brand, brings a different energy. Most recently, he led women’s wear at Polo Ralph Lauren, blending luxurious materials with classic American vibes.
“I am delighted to welcome Michael back to Celine, a maison that he knows intimately,” said Séverine Merle, Celine’s chief executive. “Michael’s vision, creative talent, together with his genuine nature and strong connection to Celine’s heritage make him a natural choice to continue to build a long-lasting success for the maison.”
Rider’s appointment is significant—not just because he’s returning to familiar ground, but also because he joins the select group of American designers at the helm of LVMH brands. Though he’s kept a low profile—no public Instagram, scarce interviews—those in the know are eager to see how he’ll steer Celine into its next chapter.
Meanwhile, Slimane’s impact is undeniable. His collections often featured faces like Kaia Gerber and Lisa from Blackpink, tapping into the zeitgeist and drawing in Gen Z fans. Blending glam rock and grunge with Parisian chic, he made Celine a label coveted by celebrities and fashion-forward youth alike.
Speculation is rife about Slimane’s next move. His final collection for Celine had a certain je ne sais quoi reminiscent of Chanel’s aesthetic. With Chanel currently without a creative director, whispers suggest Slimane might be heading there. It’s the kind of industry buzz that keeps fashion insiders on their toes.
Behind the scenes, sources hint that Slimane’s exit wasn’t just about creative evolution but also business realities. Contract negotiations with LVMH’s Bernard Arnault were reportedly challenging, especially in a market that’s tightening its belt. Slimane’s desire for total control and big-budget productions may have clashed with shifting corporate priorities.
As for Rider, his return feels like a homecoming. His past work under Philo was marked by a deep understanding of Celine’s DNA—minimalist, elegant, and timeless. The fashion world is watching to see how he’ll honor that legacy while bringing his own touch to the brand.
In a season where fashion’s game of musical chairs is spinning faster than ever—with openings at major houses and rumors swirling—the shifts at Celine are a reminder of the industry’s constant evolution. One thing’s for sure: with Rider taking the reins and Slimane’s next move on the horizon, the future looks anything but boring.
