Celine: A Luxury Fashion House

Celine, formerly spelled Céline and stylized in all caps, is a prestigious French luxury fashion house renowned for its timeless elegance and minimalist designs. Founded in 1945 by fashion designer Céline Vipiana, the brand has played a significant role in the world of high fashion, producing a wide range of luxury goods.

History and Evolution

Celine was established by Céline Vipiana and her husband, Richard, initially as a made-to-measure children's shoe business. The first boutique was opened at 52 rue Malte in Paris, marking the brand's entry into the luxury fashion market. Over time, Celine expanded its offerings beyond children's shoes to include a comprehensive collection of ready-to-wear clothing, handbags, fragrances, and accessories, all characterized by their chic yet understated aesthetic.

Headquarters

The headquarters of Celine are located at 16 rue Vivienne in the 2nd arrondissement of Paris, housed in the historic Hôtel Colbert de Torcy, which has been classified as a French Historic Monument. This location not only serves as the administrative hub but also reflects the brand's deep connection to French heritage and culture.

Key People

Throughout its history, Celine has been guided by visionary leaders and creative directors who have shaped its identity. Since April 2017, Séverine Merle has served as the Chief Executive Officer, bringing her expertise in luxury brand management to the forefront. In 2025, Michael Rider became the creative director, following the departure of Hedi Slimane in October 2024. Under Rider's leadership, the brand continues to evolve while staying true to its core principles of elegance and simplicity.

Product Offerings and Global Presence

Celine offers an extensive array of products, including ready-to-wear clothing, handbags, shoes, accessories, and fragrances. From 2000 to 2011, Interparfums held the worldwide license for Celine fragrances, a responsibility that has since been managed in-house under Hedi Slimane's creative direction.

The brand operates a global network of 178 boutiques and is available through selective luxury department stores such as Bergdorf Goodman in New York, Harrods in London, and Galeries Lafayette in Paris. This strategic distribution ensures that the exclusivity and allure of Celine's products are maintained worldwide.

Influence and Legacy