The Great Celine Debate: Michael Rider’s Slim Revolution or Just “Boring with a Capital B”?

Shifting the Dial or Losing the Vibe?

Celine has always stood as a pillar of Parisian identity. From the bourgeois roots of the house to Hedi Slimane’s indie-sleaze era, the brand defines the “it-girl” aesthetic. Michael Rider, formerly of Polo Ralph Lauren, now carries this heavy mantle. Compared to the high-octane energy of his predecessors, Rider’s “life in clothes” approach feels grounded, if perhaps a bit too safe.

The Vision: Building a Life in Clothes (Metro Rides Included)

Michael Rider is leaning into a “put-together, but not too much” philosophy. He aims to create a wardrobe that transitions seamlessly from the runway to the metro. For Fall 2026, he moved away from the preppy silk scarves and rugby shirts of his early seasons. Instead, he focused on cutting a succinct line tailored closer to the body.

Who is Michael Rider?

Rider is the creative director tasked with navigating Celine after the Slimane era. His background in American prep informs his “aspirational yet relatable” aesthetic.

The New “King” of Celine?

Whether Rider does Celine “better” than Hedi Slimane is a point of contention. Slimane gave the brand a rock-star edge; Rider is returning it to beautifully cut, slim classics.

Turning the Label into a Lifestyle

Rider creates a lifestyle brand by providing “desirable accompaniments.” He wants the Celine bag, shoes, or belt to be a badge of effortless French style.

Deep Technical Detail: The End of the Oversized Era

Rider has declared the decade-long oversized trend officially dead. He replaced it with a slimmer silhouette that emphasises the human form.

• The Silhouette: Coats and suits featured neat shoulders and torsos fitted to the torso.
• Key Pieces: Adaptations of French peacoats and narrow longline overcoats for men dominated.
• The “Bite”: Odd crowns of feathers and satin mufflers provided a touch of eccentricity.
• Fabrication: The focus remained on beautifully cut wools and cropped leather double-breasted jackets.

The Atmosphere: Prince B-Sides and Vintage Amplifiers

The most exciting element of the show was undoubtedly the soundtrack. Large, old-school wood amplifiers—affectionately dubbed “ghetto boxes” by some—blasted Prince B-sides and uptempo gospel. This “jam session” vibe gave context to the skinny, hoicked-up trousers and “boys-in-the-band” looks. While the front row featured Bryan Boy in Chanel heels, the real pulse came from the speakers.

Cultural Connection: The Modern Celine Woman

The Celine woman today is a regular Parisienne who wants a slim, beautifully cut wardrobe. She is not necessarily looking to cover up what she is going through with volume. Instead, she wants pieces that reflect her “messy inner life” with a bit of “bite.” Celebrities like Blackpink’s Lisa and Kaia Gerber remain the faces of this evolving lifestyle brand.

The Style Cartel Verdict

Michael Rider is firmly in his stride, but the stride is a quiet one. For those seeking revolutionary inclusiveness or high-fashion drama, Fall 2026 may feel “Boring with a Capital B.” However, for the girl who just wants a perfectly tailored coat for her morning commute, Rider is delivering exactly what she needs.

Do you think the new Celine is classic or just plain dull? Follow Style Cartel on Instagram and TikTok to weigh in. Leave a comment with your thoughts!

Photos: Celine F

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In a world obsessed with the finished product, Cecilie Bahnsen finds beauty in the process. Her Fall 2026 collection, titled “Practice,” rejects the idea of a final stage. Instead, Bahnsen treats fashion as a philosophy of making—repetition, passion, and refined craft. This show matters because it humanises high fashion. Historically, the Danish designer is known for sculptural, static volumes. This season, however, she bridges the gap between fairy-tale whimsy and the visceral reality of movement. It is a mature evolution for the brand, proving that dreamy shapes can be lived in.

Cecilie Bahnsen Fall 2026

The Vision: A Rehearsal in a Youth Sports Centre

The Atmosphere: Choreographed Study of Clothes

Forget the gilded salons of Paris. Bahnsen held her show inside a gritty youth sports centre. Dancers from Myrto Georgiadi’s Marseille-based collective, Oráma Atelier, transformed the room into a rehearsal space. They stretched, twirled, and jumped through a choreographed routine. This “everyday choreography” showed pieces being thrown on and peeled away. The lighting and setting stripped away the pretension of the runway, focusing purely on the work.

The “First and Last” Looks: From Layers to Performance

The show didn’t just pose; it breathed. The opening looks featured a clever layering of knits over signature sweet colours. These looks mimicked how dancers prepare for the stage. By the final routine, the “last looks” combined the sculptural strength of The North Face collaboration with airy, transparent organza. These bookends demonstrated the collection’s core duality: vulnerability meets resilience.

Deep Technical Detail: The Intersection of Fairy-Tales and Fleece

The creative exchange with Oráma Atelier informed every stitch. Fittings in the studio allowed garment construction to evolve alongside the dancers’ movements.

Key Trends, Pieces, Silhouettes, and Accessories

• Slimmer Silhouettes: Bahnsen introduced shapes that “kissed the body” rather than just billowing around it.
• Technical Performance Wear: Romantic tutus met zippered fleece jumpers, anoraks, and reversible puffers.
• The North Face Collaboration: Archival outerwear was reimagined with floral detailing and delicate embroidery.

• Bias-Cut Silk and Recycled Nylon: Airy silk dresses drifted with movement, anchored by structured nylon jackets.
• Crafted Textures: Metallic yarn embroidery and perforated technical lace offered a contemporary lens on traditional craft.
• Sculptural Pouffe Dresses: Glazed lace dresses in metallic silver caught the light like stage costumes for the street.

Cultural Connection: The New Darling of Paris

Who is Cecilie Bahnsen?

Based in Copenhagen, Cecilie Bahnsen is a finalist for the LVMH Prize and a master of modern romance. She combines fine French fashion traditions with the effortless minimalism of Scandinavian design. Her heritage is built on unique, hand-designed fabrics that create timeless, ethereal silhouettes.

Why is she the darling of PFW?

Bahnsen has captured the “darling” title by making the avant-garde approachable. Her partnership with global brands like The North Face and Asics makes her a favourite for both the high-fashion crowd and Hypebeast enthusiasts. She speaks to a generation that wants beauty and utility in equal measure.

What celebrities wear Cecilie Bahnsen?

The “Bahnsen Girl” includes a wide range of fashion icons. We often see stars like Alexa Chung, Mia Goth, Susie Bubble, Sarah Collete and Anya Taylor-Joy in her voluminous designs. Her inclusive casting in “Practice” also highlights that her fan base appreciates a variety of body types and a “growing up together” mentality.

Is the ballerina trend here to stay?

“Balletcore” is certainly more than a fleeting minute. Through this collaboration with Oráma Atelier, Bahnsen proves the trend has staying power when rooted in technical reality. It isn’t just about looking like a dancer; it is about the “comforting aftermath” and the strength found in movement.

Style Cartel Ratings:

• The Wow Factor: 4.5/5 — Seeing couture-level dresses survive a full dance routine was breathtaking.
• The Styling: 5/5 — The mix of reversible piuminos and sculptural lace is pure genius.
• The On-Brand Factor: 5/5 — This is quintessential Bahnsen, matured and animated.

Growing Up Together

Cecilie Bahnsen Fall 2026 successfully demonstrates that everyday couture can be animated rather than preserved. The “Practice” collection proves that maturity in design comes from embracing the messy, beautiful reality of movement. As Bahnsen noted backstage, she and her audience are growing up together. It is a poetic, pragmatic vision for the future of the street and the stage.

Which piece of the Cecilie Bahnsen x The North Face collab are you eyeing? Leave a comment below!

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Fashion week often feels like a series of cold, fleeting moments. Labrum London’s Fall 2026 show shattered that icy mould entirely. Foday Dumbuya didn’t just stage a runway; he hosted a cultural homecoming. This show matters now because it reclaims the narrative of the immigrant experience through joy. At Style Cartel, we look for brands that offer more than just clothes. Labrum offers a bridge between West African heritage and the grit of East London. It is art, politics, and family woven into one cohesive silhouette.

Labrum London Fall 2026

The Vision: More Than a Runway, It’s a Movement

The Atmosphere: A Summer Cookout in Autumn

Forget the sterile white boxes of traditional shows. Labrum Fall 2026 radiated a “summer cookout” vibe that transformed the venue. After guests exchanged warm greetings, the energy shifted into an all-day celebratory event. Music pulsed through the space, and the lighting mimicked a golden hour in Freetown. No one wanted to leave the space even after the final model exited. It was a lived experience, not a staged performance.

The “First and Last” Looks

The show opened with a striking, oversized, asymmetric coat in a vibrant earth-toned jacquard. It immediately anchored the collection’s message of “Found in Translation.” This first look signalled a blend of traditional utilitarianism and high-fashion elegance. The final look was a breathtaking, multi-layered textile masterpiece that moved like a liquid sculpture. These looks sparked immediate conversation about the evolution of the Labrum man.

Deep Technical Detail: Tailoring the Diaspora

Dumbuya’s design language is rooted in “Designed by an Immigrant.” For Fall 2026, the technical execution reached new heights of sophistication.

Key Trends, Silhouettes, and Fabric Innovation

• The Oversized-Beige-Blazer: A staple reimagined with subtle West African embroidery.
• Agbe-Inspired Silhouettes: Traditional tunics transformed into modern streetwear through structured canvas.

• Fabric Innovation: We saw a heavy use of sustainable raffia-weave and recycled wool blends.
• Key Accessories: Hand-painted leather pouches and oversized, structural bucket hats defined the look.
• 3D-Knit Textures: Intricate knitwear patterns that mimicked traditional Sierra Leonean floor mats.

The Rise of a Cult Giant

Who is Foday Dumbuya?

Foday Dumbuya is the creative force behind Labrum London. Born in Sierra Leone and raised in London, he creates to tell the stories of West Africa. He received the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design in 2023. His work serves as a dialogue between his dual identities.

How Labrum London Rose to Cult Status

Labrum London ascended by consistently putting community at the forefront of luxury. Dumbuya moved beyond “resort wear” to create complex, intellectual tailoring. The brand became a cult favourite by refusing to compromise its cultural integrity. It proves that authentic storytelling is the most valuable currency in fashion.

Who is the New Labrum London Client?

The new client is a global citizen who values provenance over logos. They are culturally literate and appreciate the intersection of music, art, and fashion. This individual seeks out garments that act as conversational archives.

What Celebrities Wear Labrum London?

We regularly see cultural titans like Idris Elba, Lewis Hamilton, and Little Simz in Labrum. These stars embrace the brand’s blend of heritage and modern tailoring. They represent the “Labrum Family” that Dumbuya fosters with every collection.

The Future of British Luxury

Labrum London Fall 2026 successfully institutionalised the “cookout” as a high-fashion format. Foday Dumbuya continues to prove that luxury is about connection, not exclusion. This collection will undoubtedly impact the market by shifting demand toward heritage-driven streetwear. Labrum is no longer just a “one to watch”; it is a pillar of the new British fashion establishment.

Follow Style Cartel on Instagram and TikTok for more exclusive PFW and LFW content. Leave a comment below: What was your favourite look from the cookout?

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Georges Hobeika Fall 2026 Bridal Collection

Why is the wedding market so popular?

Let’s be real. The wedding market is booming. It’s a fantasy distilled into one perfect day. For many, it’s the ultimate fashion moment. A chance to be the star of your own movie. Trends shift, but the desire for that singular, breathtaking gown remains. It’s about more than a dress; it’s about a dream. It’s about marking a new chapter. This collection speaks to that deep-seated desire for magic.

Georges Hobeika Fall 2026 Bridal Collection

Georges Hobeika and Jad Hobeika are translating emotion into pure motion. Silhouettes reveal strength. They also emanate serenity. This collection isn’t screaming for attention. It’s commanding it. It captures a fragile stillness. It is delicate yet incredibly powerful. Refinement here is an act of presence. It’s not about the spectacle. It’s about quiet mastery. Each gown is a silent gesture. Each one a cherished memory. It’s an intimate testament to the Maison‘s savoir-faire. And to the woman who wears it. Radiant, resolute, timeless. The Hobeika magic is undeniable.

Who has gotten married wearing Georges Hobeika?

This house knows how to dress a star. Think Beyoncé for her VMA performance. Think Jennifer Lopez, Cardi B. While specific bridal wear sightings are rarer, their couture DNA is everywhere. Imagine these icons embracing that Hobeika bridal aesthetic. The drama, the intricate detail. It’s a vision for any discerning bride. They dress women who command a room. Their bridal collection is no exception.

What is a Georges Hobeika fairy tale wedding?

A Georges Hobeika fairy tale wedding? It’s not about glass slippers. It’s about quiet luxury. It’s about intricate embroidery. It is about ethereal fabrics. Imagine floating down the aisle. You are enveloped in layers of tulle. Hand-applied crystals shimmer softly. The gown moves with you. It feels like a second skin. It is breathtaking. It’s not a performance. It is pure, unadulterated grace. It is a modern fairy tale. It’s understated opulence. It’s where dreams meet reality.

Key Pieces

The “Stardust” Column Dress: Fully embellished. Thousands of tiny crystals shimmer. A subtle train.

The “Whisper” Gown: A sheath dress. It features a delicate Chantilly lace overlay. Subtle pearl embellishments.

The “Ascension” Ball Gown: A dramatic skirt. It billows with layers of silk organza. A sculpted bodice.

The “Embrace” Jumpsuit: A daring, modern alternative. Wide-leg trousers. An intricately beaded bustier.

Silhouettes

• Flowing A-lines: Effortless movement. Elegant drape.
• Sculpted Sheaths: Hugging the body. Highlighting natural curves.
• Voluminous Ball Gowns: Grand, yet weightless. Dramatic entrances.
• Architectural Jumpsuits: Sharp lines. Contemporary appeal.

Accessories

• Barely-There Veils: Long, sheer tulles. Delicate lace edges.
• Statement Earrings: Modern, sculptural designs. Minimalist yet impactful.
• Embellished Headbands: Subtle sparkle. Replacing traditional tiaras.
• Delicate Gloves: Long, sheer. Adding a touch of old-world glamour.

This collection is a masterclass. It blends classic bridal with a fresh perspective. Georges Hobeika is not just designing dresses. They are crafting emotions. They are creating moments. It’s about finding your inner strength. It is about embracing your serene confidence. Every piece feels intentional. Each gown tells a story. It’s the kind of bridal that makes you gasp. Then, you simply exhale. You take it all in.

So, what are the key takeaways? Hobeika is redefining bridal beauty. It moves beyond the performative. It embraces authentic presence. The Fall 2026 collection is a testament. It showcases quiet mastery. It is radiant, resolute, timeless. It is elegance personified. This collection demands attention. It’s a statement. Not a whisper.

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