As Paris Fashion Week came to a close, Hedi Slimane announced his departure from Celine after a seven-year tenure that saw him revolutionize the brand. The news, though significant, didn’t entirely come as a surprise—rumors of his exit had been circulating for months. Still, the fashion world is abuzz with speculation about what’s next for the prolific designer.
Slimane, who took the reins from Phoebe Philo in 2017, is credited with reshaping Celine’s aesthetic, steering it away from Philo’s minimalist and understated approach to one defined by sharp tailoring, rock-n-roll edge, and a nod to French youth culture. His bold reimagining of the house polarized critics initially, but under his leadership, Celine saw its sales triple, surpassing €2 billion (£1.7 billion) by 2023, according to LVMH. His ability to blend commercial success with high-fashion credibility made him one of the most influential creative directors in the luxury space.
In his final collection for Celine, titled Un Été Français, Slimane paid tribute to 1960s French it-girls like Françoise Hardy, Jane Birkin, and Juliette Gréco. The surprise digital show, dropped just days after the close of Paris Fashion Week, served as a stylish farewell, showcasing the designer’s enduring fascination with French youth culture and effortless chic.
Beyond his creative impact, Slimane’s tenure at Celine was marked by ambitious expansions into new categories. He introduced menswear to the brand, launched fragrance lines, and even debuted Celine’s first makeup line with a collection of lipsticks earlier this year. His efforts have left an indelible mark on the brand, transforming it into a global powerhouse and expanding its appeal far beyond its original audience.
Now that Slimane’s departure is official, all eyes are on his next move. Rumors have already linked him to Chanel. Simon Porte Jacquemus, another designer with a flair for dramatic runway shows, is also reportedly being considered, making the race for Chanel’s creative leadership one of the most talked-about topics in fashion.
For now, the industry is left to speculate as Hedi Slimane, one of fashion’s most enigmatic figures, prepares for his next chapter. Whether he takes over at Chanel or launches a new venture entirely, his influence on the industry is undeniable. His legacy at Celine is one of creative reinvention and commercial triumph, a blend that few designers can achieve so seamlessly. As we wait to see what comes next, one thing is certain: wherever Slimane goes, the fashion world will be watching closely.
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