Celine, a prestigious French luxury fashion house, was founded in 1945 by designer Céline Vipiana. With its headquarters located at the historic Hôtel Colbert de Torcy in Paris, Celine has become synonymous with elegance and innovation in the fashion industry.
Early Beginnings
Celine began as a made-to-measure children’s shoe business, established by Céline and her husband Richard. Their first boutique opened at 52 rue Malte in Paris, quickly gaining recognition with its iconic red elephant logo designed by Raymont Peynet. In the 1960s, the brand shifted its focus to women’s ready-to-wear, introducing a sportswear aesthetic and expanding its offerings to include leather goods, bags, and accessories.
The introduction of the “American Sulky” collection in 1964 and the launch of the trench coat solidified Celine’s status in the fashion world. The brand began its international expansion, opening boutiques in cities like Monte Carlo, Geneva, and Beverly Hills.
Transition and Growth
In 1987, Celine was partially acquired by Bernard Arnault, leading to its full integration into the LVMH group in 1996. This acquisition propelled Celine to new heights, with a flagship store opening at 36 avenue Montaigne, Paris.
Throughout the years, Celine has seen a succession of creative directors, starting with Peggy Huynh Kinh in 1988 and followed by notable figures like Michael Kors and Phoebe Philo. Philo’s tenure, beginning in 2008, was marked by her “cool minimal” aesthetic and garnered multiple accolades, including Designer of the Year in 2010.
Hedi Slimane Era
In 2018, Hedi Slimane took the reins as artistic, creative, and image director. Under his leadership, Celine expanded its offerings to include men’s fashion, couture, and fragrances. Slimane’s vision redefined the brand’s identity, incorporating influences from youth culture and indie rock. He introduced a new logo and opened flagship stores in major cities worldwide, further solidifying Celine’s presence in the luxury market.
A Diverse Portfolio
Today, Celine operates 178 boutiques globally and collaborates with luxury department stores like Harrods and Galeries Lafayette. The brand has successfully entered into licensing agreements for sunglasses and fragrances, ensuring its product lines remain extensive and appealing to a diverse clientele.
Celine’s advertising campaigns have featured renowned photographers and brand ambassadors, enhancing its reputation as a leader in luxury fashion.
Conclusion
Celine continues to thrive as a symbol of French elegance, blending its rich heritage with modern innovation. Under the guidance of CEO Séverine Merle and Hedi Slimane, the brand is well-positioned to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of luxury fashion while maintaining its commitment to quality and style.
