CELINE Triomphe Sunglasses: A Symbol of Timeless Elegance

When it comes to luxury fashion, CELINE is a brand that needs no introduction but we’ll give you some insight anyway…

Established in 1945 by Céline Vipiana, this iconic French fashion house has been synonymous with timeless elegance and impeccable craftsmanship for over seven decades.

Céline Vipiana was a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for creating luxury and high-quality fashion goods. What started as a small made-to-measure children's shoe boutique in Paris quickly evolved into a global fashion empire.

The History

In its early days, Céline Vipiana's focus was primarily on crafting custom-made shoes for children. Her dedication to using only the finest materials and attention to detail gained her a reputation for impeccable craftsmanship. Over time, Céline expanded her offerings to include a range of women's shoes and accessories.

One of the defining moments in the brand's history came in 1967 when Céline Vipiana decided to bring on board a new creative director who would take the brand in a fresh, fashion-forward direction. She appointed designer and photographer Richard Avedon, who introduced a ready-to-wear line that would elevate Céline to a global fashion house. Avedon's designs were characterized by clean lines, quality materials, and a focus on creating sophisticated and practical clothing for modern women.

In 1987, Bernard Arnault's LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton) group acquired Céline. This marked a significant turning point for the brand as it now had the resources and global reach of one of the world's largest luxury conglomerates. LVMH's investment allowed Céline to further expand and solidify its status as a major player in the luxury fashion industry.

The brand's history is also marked by the contributions of various notable creative directors who left their indelible marks on the CELINE legacy.

In 2008, Phoebe Philo took the helm as creative director and ushered in an era of minimalist sophistication. Her designs emphasized clean lines, luxurious materials, and a focus on functionality, which resonated with modern women seeking understated elegance. Phoebe Philo's tenure was highly influential, and her designs, including the iconic "Luggage" and "Trapeze" handbags, became coveted fashion staples. Under her guidance, CELINE became known for its modern, minimalist, and beautifully tailored clothing and accessories.

Then, in 2018, Hedi Slimane succeeded Phoebe Philo as creative director, marking a new chapter in the brand's history. Slimane brought his distinctive rock 'n' roll edge to CELINE, while still maintaining the brand's commitment to impeccable craftsmanship. His designs added a youthful, edgier dimension to the brand's heritage.     

Throughout its history and creative directors, CELINE has been defined by its commitment to quality and a timeless aesthetic. The brand's signature pieces, such as the CELINE Triomphe logo, have endured as symbols of luxury and sophistication.

The Triomphe logo, which features interlocking "C" motifs, was originally designed by Céline Vipiana herself and was reintroduced by Hedi Slimane, paying homage to the brand's heritage. Among the various products offered by CELINE, the "Triomphe" sunglasses hold a special place…

The "Triomphe" in the Name

The name "Triomphe" within the context of CELINE's sunglasses carries a deeper significance that ties it to a rich history of triumph and achievement.

This name is not merely a choice but a deliberate selection that connects the brand to the Arc de Triomphe, an iconic monument in Paris, France. The Arc de Triomphe is a historical and architectural masterpiece that has come to symbolize not only French national pride but also the enduring spirit of victory and elegance. 

The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1805 after his resounding victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, one of the most famous and decisive battles of the Napoleonic Wars. This battle is often regarded as a significant turning point in European history, with Napoleon's forces emerging victorious over the Russian and Austrian armies. In recognition of this momentous achievement, Napoleon ordered the construction of the Arc de Triomphe as a monument that would stand the test of time.

The monument was designed by the architect Jean-François Chalgrin and took several decades to complete. The construction of the Arc de Triomphe was a feat of architectural and engineering excellence, featuring intricate carvings, colossal columns, and an imposing arch.

It is located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world, and it serves as a central point from which twelve radiating avenues extend, including the renowned Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

In selecting the name "Triomphe" for their sunglasses, CELINE pays homage to this iconic monument and the values it represents.

The choice of "Triomphe" aligns perfectly with the ethos of the CELINE brand, which is characterized by its commitment to timeless elegance, impeccable craftsmanship, and a sense of triumph in the world of fashion. By drawing a connection to the Arc de Triomphe, CELINE's "Triomphe" sunglasses evoke a sense of victory, accomplishment, and a lasting legacy, further reinforcing the brand's association with sophistication, luxury, and an enduring commitment to excellence.

The Iconic Design 

When Hedi Slimane took over as the creative director of CELINE in 2018, he brought with him a fresh perspective and a new vision for the brand. His arrival marked a significant turning point in the brand's history and design direction. Slimane is known for his minimalist, edgy, and youthful approach to fashion, and he has a track record of revitalizing iconic fashion houses. Under his creative direction, he made a deliberate choice to reintroduce the "Triomphe" logo to CELINE's offerings, an emblem that pays homage to the brand's heritage while infusing it with a modern touch.

Reintroducing the "Triomphe" logo was a strategic move that harkened back to the brand's roots. The logo, featuring the interlocking "C" motifs, was originally created by Céline Vipiana herself, the brand's founder. By bringing it back, Hedi Slimane honoured the brand's heritage and legacy. This gesture served as a bridge between CELINE's storied past and its contemporary evolution, emphasizing the brand's commitment to timeless elegance and craftsmanship.

The "Triomphe" logo's integration into CELINE's designs, including sunglasses, is a testament to Slimane's attention to detail and his commitment to infusing sophistication into every aspect of the brand's products.

The logo often finds its place on the temples of CELINE sunglasses, a subtle yet impactful location that adds a touch of elegance and identity to the eyewear. This careful placement ensures that the emblem doesn't overpower the design but rather complements it, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing look.

Slimane's creative direction for CELINE is characterized by a blend of understated luxury and a focus on fine craftsmanship. He places an emphasis on clean lines, high-quality materials, and meticulous tailoring. This approach resonates with individuals who appreciate fashion that exudes timelessness and quality.

Variety of Designs

CELINE Triomphe Sunglasses are available in a variety of designs, catering to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're looking for oversized frames that exude glamour or sleek, minimalist designs for a more understated look, CELINE has a pair of Triomphe sunglasses for you.