After a transformative seven-year journey, Hedi Slimane is stepping away from Celine, leaving behind a legacy that has redefined the brand and expanded its horizons. Since January 2018, Slimane has served as the Artistic, Creative, and Image director of Celine, and his influence has been profound. Slimane’s tenure at the helm of this LVMH-owned house has been nothing short of revolutionary, catapulting Celine into the spotlight with the launch of menswear and beauty lines that have invigorated the brand’s identity. The official statement from Celine highlights his remarkable contribution: “The extraordinary journey taken together over the last seven years has made Celine a house with a formidable foundation for the future.”
Slimane’s exit hardly comes as a surprise. In fact, the fashion industry had somewhat predicted it. Ever since Virginie Viard stepped down from the coveted role of Chanel‘s Creative Director, the fashion world has been rife with speculation, eyeing Slimane as a potential successor. While no official announcement has been made, Slimane’s departure from Celine will undoubtedly further fuel these claims, anticipating how his creative genius might shape the next chapter for the storied house of Chanel.
As Hedi Slimane exits, Celine has already announced its new creative director, Michael Rider, whose appointment takes effect in early 2025. This marks a homecoming for the American designer, who previously served as design director at Celine for a decade during Phoebe Philo’s influential tenure. Most recently, Rider was the creative director at Polo Ralph Lauren until his departure at the end of May.
Rider’s appointment promises an exciting new chapter for Celine, and we’re all invited to watch it unfold. As for Slimane’s future? One can’t help but wonder: is 31 Rue Cambon calling? Well, only time will tell.
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