celine ss21 men | Celine spring dresses 2021

Hedi Slimane’s Celine Spring/Summer 2021 menswear collection, aptly titled "The Dancing Kid," was more than just a presentation of clothes; it was a cultural snapshot, a vibrant expression of youth culture shaped by the constraints and creative explosions of the pandemic. The collection, showcased via a visually arresting film shot at the Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet, France, wasn't a subtle nod to the digital age, but a full-blown embrace, resulting in a collection perfectly attuned to the sensibilities of Gen Z and the TikTok generation. This article delves into the runway looks, beauty, models, and critical reception of Celine's SS21 men's collection, exploring its key themes, individual pieces, and overall impact on the landscape of Celine menswear.

A Digital Runway: Setting the Stage

Instead of a traditional runway show, Slimane opted for a high-octane film that amplified the collection's energy. Set against the backdrop of the iconic race track, models – a mix of established faces and fresh, Gen Z discoveries – moved with a dynamic urgency. The film’s soundtrack, a pulsating mix of electronic music, perfectly complemented the collection’s youthful exuberance. The setting itself was symbolic; the race track, a space typically associated with speed and competition, became a playground for a generation finding its own path, redefining its own rules. This unconventional presentation underscored Celine's commitment to engaging with its target audience on their terms, blurring the lines between fashion and digital entertainment.

Decoding the Collection: Key Themes and Influences

The Celine Spring 2021 men's collection was a masterclass in distilling contemporary youth trends into a cohesive and undeniably luxurious offering. Several key themes emerged:

* TikTok Aesthetics: The most prominent influence was undoubtedly the burgeoning TikTok aesthetic. The collection borrowed heavily from the app's most popular trends, incorporating elements of e-boy, skater, and hypebeast styles. Oversized hoodies, graphic tees, bucket hats, and chain necklaces were all prominent features, reflecting the app's influence on contemporary fashion.

* Relaxed Silhouettes: Comfort was paramount. The collection prioritized relaxed silhouettes, with oversized hoodies, baggy jeans, and loose-fitting shirts taking center stage. This emphasis on comfort reflected the changing priorities of consumers, who increasingly value ease of wear alongside style. This also mirrored the shift towards more casual attire necessitated by lockdowns and remote work.

* Skater Culture: Skater culture has long been a touchstone for Hedi Slimane, and the SS21 collection was no exception. Board shorts, graphic tees featuring skate-inspired imagery, and sneakers were all incorporated, paying homage to the rebellious spirit and effortless cool of skate culture.

* Indie Sleaze Revival: While not overtly stated, there were subtle nods to the "indie sleaze" aesthetic of the late 2000s and early 2010s. Skinny jeans (though updated with a more relaxed fit), leather jackets, and a general air of nonchalant cool hinted at a revival of this influential subculture.celine ss21 men

* Luxury Streetwear: Celine successfully bridged the gap between high fashion and streetwear, creating a collection that felt both aspirational and accessible. High-quality materials, impeccable tailoring (even in relaxed silhouettes), and subtle branding elevated the collection beyond typical streetwear offerings.

Runway Highlights: A Deep Dive into the Looks

The collection featured a diverse range of looks, each reflecting the overarching themes of youth, comfort, and digital influence. Here’s a breakdown of some key runway moments:

* The Oversized Hoodie Ensemble: This was a recurring theme, with various iterations of the oversized hoodie paired with baggy jeans, sneakers, and bucket hats. These looks epitomized the collection’s emphasis on comfort and effortless style. The hoodies themselves featured bold graphics, ranging from band logos to abstract designs, further amplifying their visual impact.

* The Graphic Tee and Denim Combo: Graphic tees were another staple of the collection, often paired with distressed denim jeans or shorts. These looks were a nod to the DIY aesthetic of skate culture and the expressive power of personal style. The graphic tees ranged from vintage-inspired designs to contemporary artwork, showcasing the diverse influences shaping the collection.

* The Leather Jacket Moment: Leather jackets, a signature of Hedi Slimane's work, were present in various forms, from classic biker jackets to more contemporary bomber styles. These pieces added a touch of rebellious edge to the collection, contrasting with the more relaxed silhouettes.

* The Chain and Accessory Detail: Chain necklaces, bucket hats, and sunglasses were essential accessories, adding a layer of personality and individuality to each look. These accessories were not mere afterthoughts but integral components of the overall aesthetic, underscoring the importance of personal expression in the digital age.

* The Board Short and Sneaker Pairing: This unexpected pairing was a bold statement, showcasing the collection's willingness to experiment with unconventional silhouettes and challenge traditional notions of menswear. The board shorts were often paired with high-top sneakers and graphic tees, creating a look that was both playful and stylish.

* The Tailored (But Still Relaxed) Look: While the collection heavily leaned into casualwear, there were moments where tailoring shone through, albeit in a relaxed and contemporary manner. Think slightly oversized blazers paired with jeans and sneakers, offering a sophisticated yet comfortable alternative to traditional suiting.

Beauty and Styling: Completing the Picture