The latest collection from Celine (Instagram), titled “La Collection de l’Arc de Triomphe”, isn’t just a fashion show; it’s a full-on Parisian love story. Helmed by the ever-visionary Hedi Slimane, the collection takes us on a whirlwind tour through the house’s heritage, with a particular focus on the swinging Sixties – a period considered Celine’s golden age.
Inspiration struck in a most serendipitous way. The story goes that Celine Vipiana, the house’s founder, found herself stranded near the Arc de Triomphe in 1971. It was there that she spotted the now-iconic chain link motif adorning the monument, a detail that would later become the brand’s signature.
Fast forward to 2018, and Slimane reimagines this emblem with a contemporary edge, christening it “Triomphe”, a fitting celebration of success and an homage to the chain link fence around Paris’ famed monument. This season, the Triomphe takes center stage, appearing on everything from bags (including the now-coveted Triomphe bag) to sunglasses and belts.
But the collection isn’t just about logo worship. Slimane masterfully captures the essence of the Sixties with a series of chic two-piece coordinates, high hemlines, and cropped jackets – a stark contrast to the more relaxed silhouettes seen in the summer collection. Think Audrey Hepburn meets Parisian cool-girl. The vibe is undeniably youthful and empowering, a perfect fit for the modern Celine woman, who isn’t afraid to embrace a bold and confident femininity.
The presentation itself deserved a standing ovation. Slimane chose a series of historical Art Deco venues in Paris as his backdrop, including La Salle Pleyel, a renowned concert hall known for its revolutionary acoustics, and Le Musée Bourdelle’s Salle des Plâtres, a “modern temple” showcasing monumental plaster casts. These locations added a touch of grandeur and artistic depth to the entire experience. The interplay between the clean lines of the clothing and the intricate details of the venues created a captivating dialogue between past and present.
“La Collection de l’Arc de Triomphe” also marks the debut of Celine Beauté, the brand’s first-ever cosmetics line. This isn’t a mere foray into makeup; it’s a complete luxury beauty experience. Get ready to swoon over the “Rouge Celine” collection of lipsticks launching in 2025, with a sneak peek offered through the “La Peau Nue” rose lipstick sported by the models. The focus on natural beauty with a touch of Parisian edge aligns perfectly with the overall aesthetic of the collection.
Whether you’re a Celine devotee or simply appreciate timeless design with a contemporary twist, this collection is a must-see. It’s a powerful homage to the house’s heritage while firmly setting its sights on the future. Slimane doesn’t just revisit the past; he reimagines it for a new generation, ensuring Celine remains a relevant and covetable brand for years to come.
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