Celine

History of the Celine house

Founded in 1945 by Céline and Richard Vipiana, Celine began as a parisian boutique specializing in custom-made children’s shoes. The rapid success of this refined boutique soon prompted Céline Vipiana to expand the brand, introducing leather goods in the 1960s and later a women’s collection characterized by understated, sporty elegance. Loafers, pleated skirts, soft knitwear, and bags made in Italy came to define the Celine aesthetic: that of a chic, active, and modern woman. In 1973, the famous double “C” logo, inspired by the chains encircling the Arc de Triomphe, made its debut and has since become one of the brand’s iconic symbols.

Celine’s international rise

In the 1980s, Celine established itself as an international brand before being acquired by the LVMH Group in 1996. This marked the beginning of a new era led by several major creative directors. American designer Michael Kors first introduced a minimalist and sophisticated luxury style with jet-set flair, while british designer Phoebe Philo profoundly revolutionized the brand’s image starting in 2008 with an intellectual, streamlined, and functional aesthetic that became a cult favorite among contemporary women.

Hedi Slimane and Celine’s new identity

In 2018, French designer Hedi Slimane opened a new chapter by removing the accent from the “é” in Céline and infusing Celine with a rock-and-roll, parisian aesthetic, drawing on references to the 1960s and 1970s. He developed a comprehensive universe blending fashion, fragrances, accessories, and a men’s line, all while reaffirming the brand’s unique identity.

Celine, a symbol of contemporary parisian luxury

For more than eighty years, Celine has continually reinvented itself through the designers who have shaped its history, while maintaining its vision of understated, modern, and deeply parisian luxury. Blending heritage, innovation, and craftsmanship, the brand remains today an essential benchmark of luxury fashion and French elegance.

How to get a Celine item appraised?

To obtain an appraisal of your Celine outfits or bags, we recommend providing:

• - Photographs

• - Product references, signatures, and dimensions

• - Provenance and history

• - Condition

This information allows our experts to provide an initial appraisal.

Selling a Celine outfit or bag at auction

Our experts travel throughout France and Europe in collaboration with our regional offices to conduct appraisals and evaluations of your items. You can also, prior to scheduling an appointment, submit your appraisal request along with a description, photos, and any available documents related to the item via the online form, or directly by email to our specialist.

Contact our expert to obtain appraisals for your Celine sets or bags.