Hedi Slimane Exits Celine, To Be Replaced By Polo Ralph Lauren Creative Director
Images via Audrius Venclova | Dreamstime.com (left) and Y.R/ABACAPRESS.COM / Alamy Stock Photo (right)
After seven years of shaping Celine with his rock ‘n’ roll flair, Hedi Slimane is stepping down as the brand’s creative director. Slimane, who took the reins in 2018, has been credited with reshaping the French fashion house by introducing menswear, fragrances, and a bold new aesthetic that included the introduction of the popular Triomphe handbag. His time at Celine has been marked by dramatic growth, helping solidify its place as a major player in luxury fashion.
Stepping into Slimane’s shoes is Michael Rider, who started his career at Balenciaga, then moved to Celine before leading creative direction at Polo Ralph Lauren. Now, his return to Celine, slated to take place in early 2025, is expected to merge his deep understanding of the brand’s legacy with fresh ideas.
BREAKING: Michael Rider is the new creative director of CELINE. 🪡
— La Mode Unknown (@LaModeUnknown) October 2, 2024
He previously held the place at Polo Ralph Lauren. pic.twitter.com/wUsdhCkVxX
Slimane’s departure comes at a time of notable shifts in the fashion industry, following recent exits from high-profile designers at Chanel, Valentino, and Givenchy.
Known for his bold decisions, Slimane’s tenure saw him drop the accent from Celine’s name and launch the brand’s first-ever menswear collection in 2019—a move that was both celebrated and divisive. He also debuted the fashion house’s first fragrance line.
Praised for his minimalist yet refined aesthetic, Slimane’s designs often embraced clean lines, monochromatic tones, and high-end fabrics. His collections quickly became red carpet favorites, gracing celebrities such as Lady Gaga.
Lady Gaga was the first (2018) and the last (2024) celebrity to wear Hedi Slimane's Celine. He just left Celine! pic.twitter.com/9PCNOUKmTA
— La Maison Gaga (@LaMaisonGaga_) October 2, 2024
Celine’s parent company, LVMH, which made the announcement, didn’t provide details on why Slimane is leaving or what his next move might be. However, it acknowledged his “holistic vision” and keen attention to detail have laid a strong foundation for Celine’s future.
[via WWD, Vogue Business, Robb Report, images via various sources]
