While most of the French capital stood eerily still on Sunday thanks to “Paris Respire” — the city’s car-free initiative — the Tuileries Gardens were alive with a different kind of buzz: Celine’s grand return to the runway.
Guests arrived to discover a playful twist on the dress code. Many wore a white scarf, tied around their neck, wrist, or bag — an accessory that wasn’t coincidental but part of the show invitation itself, setting the tone for Celine’s Spring 2026 collection showcase.
Star Power on the Front Row
The show became an instant red-carpet moment thanks to the glittering guest list. Hollywood actress Naomi Watts brought her signature elegance, while global superstar Kim Taehyung (V) of BTS set social media ablaze with his presence. The stylish crowd added to the electric atmosphere, making the Celine show one of the most star-studded events of the season.
Celine’s Big Comeback
This wasn’t just another runway outing — it marked Celine’s first physical fashion show in years. The brand’s previous designer, Hedi Slimane, had famously opted for cinematic short films to present collections, with the last live runway taking place back in February 2023.
The anticipation was palpable because this show introduced Michael Rider’s debut as Celine’s new artistic director. Fashion insiders were eager to see how Rider would reinterpret Celine’s DNA while carrying forward Slimane’s legacy of sleek, rock-and-roll minimalism.
What the Collection Offered
Staged at the brand’s Right Bank headquarters, the collection reflected Celine’s timeless Parisian chic with a modern update. While official reviews are still rolling in, the initial response suggests Rider struck a balance between sophisticated tailoring, fluid silhouettes, and bold accessories, positioning Celine as a brand ready to reclaim its runway dominance.
Why This Show Matters
Between the star-studded attendance, Rider’s much-anticipated debut, and the return of Celine to the physical runway, this showcase cemented itself as one of Paris’s most significant pre-Haute Couture Week highlights.
If the buzz at the Tuileries is any indication, Celine’s new chapter under Michael Rider has already won the fashion world’s attention.
