Hedi Slimane Meets Old Celine Fans Halfway for Fall

Hedi Slimane's first collection for Celine seemed hellbent on distancing itself from Phoebe Philo’s work. But after Friday night’s show it looks like Slimane has met Philo fans somewhere in the middle, offering a very wearable collection of blazers, jeans, sweaters and skirts, that while not particularly mind blowing or directional, was just plain good.

The show opened with a model descending from the ceiling in a humongous clear box. Much to everyone’s surprise she was wearing plaid culottes, a white blouse, and blazer. Her aviators, scrunchy leather boots, and beautiful printed scarf added luxe touches to the ‘70s-inspired look. A gorgeous gray pinstripe suit teamed with a cream turtleneck followed. After that came a model wearing skinny jeans, a camel cape, and shearling-lined thigh high wedge boots. At that point it became clear: Those expecting tight, mini dresses or black skintight suits (Hedi's signature style for Saint Laurent) would have to look elsewhere. In fact, it was as if Slimane saw all the #OldCeline tags on Instagram and said to himself “I’ll show them old Celine!” right down to the horse bit print on blouses, belts, and crossbody bags. But there were still touches of Slimane thoughout: a leather jacket here, silver sequin top there. As there should be, it’s a designers job to put their own spin on house codes.

Will this collection please former Philo fans? Who can say. What I do know is that it will at least attract a woman who is looking for luxury pieces to wear in her everyday life, and that bodes will for business.