Who is Hedi Slimane and why is he a hot topic in the fashion industry?

This 2019 file picture shows Hedi Slimane gesturing to the audience at the end of the presentation of Celine's Spring/Summer 2020 menswear show. Photo: AFP

The announcement that Hedi Slimane is leaving Celine has spurred even more speculation about the latest comings and goings of the fashion industry.

His departure marks the latest among many movements – Pierpaolo Piccioli left Valentino in March after nearly two decades, while Karl Lagerfeld’s successor, Virginie Viard, moved on from Chanel in June.

Former Gucci head Alessandro Michele made his runway debut for Valentino just last week too.

Slimane, a rather controversial figure (it’s a matter of whether you love his designs or not), is rumoured to possibly be taking over Viard’s empty seat at Chanel.

When he joined Celine in 2018, there was furore over how he would be changing his predecessor Phoebe Philo’s aesthetic.

The Parisian label founded in 1945, became popular under Philo, who left in 2017 after a 10-year stint. Her designs were lauded for clothes that women favoured.

Lady Gaga wears a dramatic Celine gown for the 'Joker: Folie A Deux' premiere. It features a slanted drop waist and matching puff-sleeve bolero. Photo: Instagram/Lady Gaga

As seen at a Cannes Film Festival event last year, actor Joe Alwyn rocks a soft, tailored design by Hedi Slimane. Photo: Celine

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Slimane however has a more rock-n-roll and edgy vibe.

That said, Celine has successfully widened its customer base during Slimane’s tenure. The label managed to capture the attention of a younger demographic since his joining.

Celebrities do love his designs. At every high-profile event, there would be at least a couple of his creations walking the red carpet.

Slimane is also known for his menswear. In 2019, he presented Celine’s inaugural menswear collection.

From 2000 to 2007, he was the creative director for Dior Homme and the late Lagerfeld famously lost weight to fit in the skinny pants.

While heading Saint Laurent (2012 to 2016), Slimane made the controversial decision to drop the “Yves” from the Yves Saint Laurent name to just Saint Laurent.

Hedi Slimane's final collection before his departure is one that pays tribute to legendary French it-girls. Photo: Celine

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He also made the skinny aesthetic a trademark in his designs.

So, all eyes are on him to see whether he will be doing the same at his next job placement.

A first Chanel menswear line is already being whispered among industry insiders.

His last Celine collection (Spring/Summer 2025) is also said to be giving off a Chanel vibe – which again, has set tongues wagging.