Hedi Slimane Exits Celine, Michael Rider Joins, Burberry Expands Their Iconic Scarf Collection

In a major shakeup in the fashion world, Hedi Slimane, one of the most influential designers of his generation, has officially parted ways with Celine. Slimane, who joined Celine in 2018 after a groundbreaking tenure at Saint Laurent, has spent the last seven years reshaping the DNA of the historic Parisian fashion house, modernizing its image while staying true to its roots. Slimane’s exit marks the end of an era that saw Celine reach unprecedented heights under his direction.

Slimane’s tenure at Celine can be characterized by his profound understanding of contemporary culture, music, and youth. Known for seamlessly blending Parisian elegance with rock-inspired edge, Slimane’s collections often referenced French high society while embracing today’s digital youth culture, particularly through platforms like TikTok. Slimane brought a unique energy to the brand, often turning his runway shows into electrifying concert-like productions, where music and fashion intertwined in an immersive spectacle.

Key Contributions to Celine:

Slimane’s contributions to Celine are numerous and multifaceted. Upon taking the reins, he introduced the brand's first-ever menswear line, a significant move that expanded Celine's offerings and appeal. He also launched the Haute Parfumerie line, reflecting his penchant for luxury and attention to detail, followed by the introduction of Celine Beauty, marking the brand's foray into the beauty industry.

Another signature move by Slimane was his shift from traditional runway shows to cinematic fashion films, which he personally directed. His films, often shot in iconic locations such as the South of France and Holkham Hall in Norfolk, encapsulated the essence of his collections while pushing the boundaries of how fashion could be presented. These films became a hallmark of Slimane’s vision at Celine, providing a fresh, innovative take on fashion presentations during an era marked by the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of digital media.

Slimane also launched two critically acclaimed series, Portrait of an Artist and Portrait of a Performer, which highlighted the work of artists and musicians like Bob Dylan, Wiz Khalifa, Kevin Parker, and even the legendary filmmaker Jean-Luc Godard. Music, an integral part of Slimane’s career, was ever-present in his work at Celine. He famously dedicated his FW23 menswear collection to the NYC band Suicide, and iconic acts like The Libertines, The Strokes, and Iggy Pop performed at his afterparties.

A Legacy of Growth and Transformation:

During Slimane’s leadership, Celine experienced remarkable growth, solidifying its place as a luxury powerhouse. His work at the brand redefined its feminine and Parisian identity while introducing fresh elements like menswear and fragrance. Slimane’s vision was described by Celine as holistic, blending precision and innovation to create an identity that both respected the brand’s history and pointed to a dynamic future.

As of now, no announcements have been made regarding Slimane’s next move. Speculation is rife about where the influential designer will go next, with many insiders wondering if he will start his own label or join another major fashion house. His departure leaves big shoes to fill, and while Celine has not yet named a successor, fashion enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the next chapter for both Slimane and Celine.

Michael Rider Joins Celine:

Meanwhile, in another significant move for the brand, Michael Rider has joined Celine. Rider, who has built a reputation for his sharp tailoring and innovative designs, is expected to bring a new perspective to the Parisian house. Rider’s aesthetic differs from Slimane’s in key ways, but industry experts are hopeful that he will build on the foundation laid by his predecessor while injecting his own creativity into the brand.

Rider's entry comes at a critical moment for Celine, as the fashion house is now tasked with maintaining its momentum post-Slimane. As Rider steps into his new role, he is expected to unveil his vision for the future of Celine, which will likely include a blend of respect for the brand’s heritage and modern interpretations of luxury.

Burberry's Expanding Scarf Collection:

In other fashion news, Burberry is focusing on growing its iconic collection of luxury scarves. Known for its classic plaid designs, Burberry scarves have long been a symbol of British elegance and craftsmanship. The expansion of their scarf collection comes as part of Burberry’s larger strategy to modernize its brand while maintaining its classic appeal.

Under the creative direction of Daniel Lee, Burberry has been steadily revamping its image, combining traditional British elements with bold, contemporary designs. The scarf collection is part of this strategy, with new styles featuring innovative textures, materials, and colors, appealing to both the brand’s loyal customer base and a younger, fashion-forward audience.