Michael Rider, a seasoned fashion designer with a deep understanding of Celine’s heritage, has been appointed as the brand’s new creative director. This appointment follows the departure of Hedi Slimane, who led Celine for seven years. Rider’s return to Celine, where he previously worked for a decade under Phoebe Philo, marks a significant moment for the LVMH-owned fashion house.
Rider’s career trajectory highlights his expertise and experience in the luxury fashion industry. After graduating from Brown University, he honed his skills at Balenciaga under the tutelage of Nicolas Ghesquière. He then joined Celine during its “golden era,” contributing significantly to Phoebe Philo’s minimalist aesthetic and the brand’s global appeal. Following Philo’s departure, Rider took the helm at Polo Ralph Lauren, successfully revitalizing the brand’s preppy heritage with a modern touch. His departure from Ralph Lauren in May 2024 paved the way for his return to Celine.
Celine SS11, showcasing the brand’s minimalist aesthetic. Photography Stephane Cardinale/Corbis via Getty Images.
Michael Rider’s Design Philosophy and Impact
While Rider maintains a lower profile than his predecessor, his impact on the fashion world is undeniable. At Polo Ralph Lauren, he subtly modernized the brand’s classic American heritage, demonstrating his ability to blend tradition with innovation. This skillset makes him an ideal fit for Celine, a brand seeking to balance its heritage with contemporary relevance.
Rider’s Predecessor: Hedi Slimane’s Legacy at Celine
Hedi Slimane’s tenure at Celine was marked by a radical transformation of the brand’s aesthetic. His controversial debut collection, Spring/Summer 2019, deviated significantly from Philo’s minimalist vision. However, Slimane eventually found success with his bourgeois French-girl aesthetic, contributing to Celine’s significant growth. Under his leadership, Celine’s annual sales reached an estimated €2.6 billion, solidifying its position as a leading fashion house within the LVMH group.
Hedi Slimane, former creative director of Celine. Photography Evan Agostini via Getty Images.
The Future of Celine Under Michael Rider’s Leadership
Rider’s appointment signals a potential shift back towards Celine’s understated elegance, reminiscent of the Philo era. However, his unique perspective and experience at Ralph Lauren suggest a fresh approach that acknowledges the evolving fashion landscape. His deep understanding of Celine’s DNA, combined with his proven ability to revitalize heritage brands, positions him to build upon Celine’s legacy while ushering in a new era of creative direction.
Celine SS15
Celine SS15, exemplifying the understated elegance of the brand. Photography Stephane Cardinale/Corbis via Getty Images.
Rider’s return to Celine is highly anticipated. His expertise in blending heritage with modernity, coupled with his intimate knowledge of the brand, promises a compelling new chapter for the iconic fashion house. The fashion world eagerly awaits the unveiling of his vision for Celine.
