DELULU GOES LUXURY.
Somehow 2023 has become the year of embracing the delulu, no matter the obstacles that may come your way. Fittingly, Celine’s summer 2024 show riffs on this idea, albeit in Image Director Hedi Slimane’s own way. The presentation, referred to as The Show That Never Was, nods to the fact that it was slated for July 2023 and subsequently canceled due to the political climate in Paris. Instead Slimane pivoted, shooting a short film to highlight the collection. Titled Delusional Daydream, it was released today. Taking place in both Paris, at La Gaîté Lyric (where the show was slated) and Le Grand Rex, as well as in Monte Carlo, Monaco at the Opera Garnier, the ten minute video opens with classical ballet dancer Laurids Seidel. Equal parts performance and runway show, it opens with Seidel performing before segueing into a traditional runway show, albeit spliced with further moments featuring the dancer.
Set against a set filled with gold mirrored panels, the androgynous models walk to the music of LCD Soundsystem – a continuation of the musical themes set in the brand’s women’s spring 24 women’s collection. The collection was inspired by Slimane’s interactions with the New York art scene, namely in 2007 when he curated a group show called Sweet Bird of Youth as well as his portraiture exhibit Young American. Both featured then emerging artists like Ryan McGinley, Terence Koh, Dash Snow, and more. Snow, in particular, is a point of fixation, as the artist’s estate granted permission to use select works in Delusional Daydream. In a full circle moment, the release also notes that Slimane returned to shooting portraits at the end of lockdown, this time featuring a new generation of New York artists, to whom the show is dedicated.
Given the influences it’s no surprise that the clothes are classic Slimane silhouettes. The tailored suits, slim fitting and androgynous, a nod to his earlier work at Dior Homme. White shirts paired with skinny ties are a throwback as well, referencing his signature five centimeter collar. Also noteworthy are the looks which feature satin bows wrapped around the waist. They open the show and are a reference to the French 17th century court and ceremonial portraits. To round out the collection you’ll also find plenty of leather, low rise trousers, and skin-baring tops that offer a flash of shoulder or waistline. If that’s Celine’s idea of being delulu, there will be plenty of delulu fans come next spring.
