Hedi Slimane, the master of cool and curator of Parisian chic, delivered a spring 2022 collection for Celine that was less a singular statement and more a meticulously crafted remix of familiar signatures. The Celine SS22 womenswear collection, presented against the backdrop of the opulent Hôtel de l’Observatoire in Paris, felt like a distillation of Slimane’s Celine era thus far, pushing the boundaries of his established aesthetic while remaining firmly rooted in the house's DNA. This collection, dissected through the lens of Celine runway outfits, Celine runway looks 2022, and Celine runway looks in general, reveals a sophisticated dialogue between bourgeois tailoring, varsity casualness, and streetwear cool, resulting in a modern and surprisingly versatile wardrobe.
Deconstructing the Celine SS22 Aesthetic:
The genius of Slimane’s Celine SS22 lies not in revolutionary reinvention, but in the seamless fusion of seemingly disparate elements. The collection is a masterclass in juxtaposition, showcasing how traditional tailoring can be effortlessly paired with youthful, sporty pieces, and grounded with the undeniable edge of streetwear influences.
* Bourgeois Tailoring: Celine has long been synonymous with a certain Parisian elegance, and the SS22 collection maintains this heritage through impeccably tailored blazers, structured jackets, and classic silhouettes. These pieces, rendered in luxurious fabrics like wool, tweed, and leather, form the foundation of many looks. Think sharply defined shoulders, nipped-in waists, and timeless cuts that exude sophistication. The collection featured variations on the classic Celine blazer, from single-breasted styles in muted tones to more daring versions adorned with embellishments or crafted from unexpected materials. Trousers were equally refined, ranging from wide-leg palazzo pants that flowed with movement to slim-fitting cigarette trousers that emphasized a sleek silhouette. Skirts, too, played a crucial role, offering a range of lengths and styles from demure midi skirts to more playful mini skirts. These tailored pieces, often presented in a palette of neutral tones like black, grey, navy, and beige, provided a sense of understated luxury that is inherently Celine.
* Varsity Casualness: Injecting a youthful energy into the collection was the distinct influence of varsity style. This wasn't a literal interpretation of sports uniforms, but rather a subtle incorporation of elements like bomber jackets, baseball caps, and oversized sweatshirts. These pieces, often emblazoned with the Celine logo or collegiate-inspired graphics, added a touch of irreverence and playfulness to the overall aesthetic. The bomber jackets, in particular, were a standout, appearing in various iterations from classic leather versions to more modern interpretations in nylon or embellished fabrics. Baseball caps, worn with everything from tailored suits to mini dresses, added an unexpected touch of casual cool. Sweatshirts, often oversized and worn as dresses or layered over skirts, further amplified the relaxed, youthful vibe. This infusion of varsity style served to break down the formality of the tailoring, creating a more accessible and relatable collection for a wider audience.
* Streetwear Cool: Completing the trifecta of influences was the undeniable presence of streetwear. This manifested in elements like ripped jeans, combat boots, and chain jewelry, adding an edge of rebellion and urban cool to the collection. The ripped jeans, often paired with tailored blazers and delicate blouses, provided a striking contrast that epitomized the collection's theme of juxtaposition. Combat boots, worn with everything from mini skirts to tailored trousers, added a grounding element and a touch of tough-luxe. Chain jewelry, layered necklaces and chunky bracelets, provided a subtle nod to the streetwear aesthetic, adding a touch of personality and individuality to the looks. This integration of streetwear elements prevented the collection from becoming too predictable or stuffy, ensuring that it resonated with a contemporary audience that values both style and comfort.
Analyzing Key Celine Runway Outfits from SS22:
The Celine SS22 collection was not just about individual pieces; it was about the way those pieces were styled and combined to create cohesive and impactful looks. Here are a few key Celine runway outfits that exemplify the collection's aesthetic:
* The Blazer and Ripped Jeans Combo: This quintessential Celine look perfectly embodies the collection's core concept. A sharply tailored blazer, perhaps in a classic black or navy, is paired with ripped jeans, creating a striking contrast between sophistication and rebellion. The look is often completed with a pair of ankle boots or sneakers, depending on the desired level of formality. This outfit is a testament to the power of juxtaposition and demonstrates how seemingly disparate pieces can be combined to create a stylish and modern ensemble.
* The Mini Dress and Bomber Jacket: This youthful and playful look showcases the collection's varsity influence. A mini dress, perhaps in a bold color or print, is paired with a bomber jacket, adding a touch of casual cool. The look is often completed with a pair of chunky boots or sneakers, further emphasizing the youthful vibe. This outfit is perfect for those who want to make a statement while maintaining a sense of effortless style.