Hedi Slimane replaces Phoebe Philo at Céline, adds menswear

By

Sandra Halliday

Published
Jan 21, 2018

LVMH has named Hedi Slimane as artistic, creative and image director of the Céline label starting next month. But most important, as well as directing all Céline collections, he’ll extend the brand to men’s fashion, couture and fragrances.

Slimane has been out of a job since leaving Saint Laurent in spring 2016. But it was clear that he would be in demand in the top flight given that his makeover of the Kering-owned house had driven sales ever higher and even helped Saint Laurent compete with stablemate Gucci to be Kering's star brand. 

What he will do now will certainly be interesting as his style is a world away from that of Phoebe Philo and gained him both fans and critics in his previous role.

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LVMH said his “talent and his remarkable ability to anticipate and express in a unique way the evolutions and desires of his age, will ensure a further era of exceptional growth and development” for Céline.

The luxury giant’s controlling shareholder Bernard Arnault said: “I am particularly happy that Hedi is back within the LVMH Group and taking the reins of our Céline Maison. He is one of the most talented designers of our time. I have been a great admirer of his work since we collaborated on Dior Homme. 

“His arrival at Céline reinforces the great ambitions that LVMH has for this Maison. Hedi will leverage his global vision and unique aesthetic virtuosity.”

Slimane added: “I am delighted to join Bernard Arnault in this all-embracing and fascinating mission for Céline. I greatly look forward to returning to the exciting world of fashion and the dynamism of the ateliers.”