CELINE has announced Michael Rider as its new Artistic Director, marking a return to the maison for the designer. Rider will assume full creative responsibility for all CELINE collections, including womenswear, menswear, leather goods, accessories, and couture, with his appointment taking effect in early 2025. He will take over as Artistic Director from Hedi Slimane, whose departure from CELINE was announced today.
Michael Rider is no stranger to CELINE, having spent ten instrumental years as Design Director during Phoebe Philo‘s tenure. He began his fashion career at Balenciaga under Nicolas Ghesquière and most recently served as Creative Director of Polo Ralph Lauren. Rider’s extensive experience and deep understanding of CELINE’s heritage make him a natural fit for the role.
Séverine Merle, CEO of CELINE, expressed her excitement about Rider’s return: “I am delighted to welcome Michael back to CELINE, a maison that he knows intimately. Michael’s vision, creative talent, and strong connection to CELINE’s heritage make him a natural choice to continue to build a long-lasting success for the maison.”
In response to the appointment, Rider said, “CELINE is a maison with values very close to my heart and a beautiful heritage to build on. I am honored to come back and shape the future of the maison together with the CELINE team.”
Michael Rider’s return to CELINE signals a new chapter for the brand, bringing with him a deep knowledge of CELINE’s ethos, a forward-looking vision, and a commitment to honoring its storied legacy while shaping its future direction. Fashion enthusiasts eagerly await the creative direction Rider will bring to CELINE as he takes on this pivotal role.
