Positioned squarely at the front, the Triomphe looks more like a piece of jewellery rather than a typical clasp. The emblem is the defining element in Celine’s Triomphe series of bags—the second bag designed by creative, artistic and image director Hedi Slimane—and one that has become an icon in its own right.
Although the Triomphe bags were introduced in 2019—first with the Classique Triomphe bag—the emblem had already been part of Celine’s archives since the 1970s. It was quite widely used in various ways, including as a repeated patterned motif as well as hardware on bags albeit in a much smaller rendition and encased within a link. The Triomphe itself was inspired by and named after the chains surrounding Paris’ Arc de Triomphe monument.
Celine by Hedi Slimane‘s version of the Triomphe is decidedly more prominent. The double-C emblem has been removed from its link and enlarged, taking up significant real estate on each piece that it adorns. This lends a more contemporary look to the Triomphe series while retaining that undeniable Parisian chic air consistent in the Celine universe.
What has also remained throughout the Triomphe series is the attention to detail and savoir faire that was established since the 1960s. There’s a reason why each Triomphe bag looks incredibly sturdy and structured. Craftsmen ensure that edges of leather are impeccably lined up before tightly topstitching them together, especially on the exterior. The main compartment is crafted from the inside-out and reinforced with leather-piping for a more seamless, rounded construction.
These techniques are applied throughout the Triomphe series, regardless of size and silhouette.
The Classique Triomphe (the series’ first silhouette) is a roomy shoulder and crossbody bag at 22 x 16.5 x 7cm. Since its debut, the series has grown significantly with different permutations in terms of size and design functionality. The Shoulder Triomphe and Chain Shoulder Triomphe for instance, are both more rectangular than the original and feature a shorter chain and strap respectively to accommodate shoulder carry.
The Teen Triomphe is arguably the most popular of the series. Like its name suggests, the Teen Triomphe is the smallest out of the three currently available: the Classique (medium) and the Large. Yet, the Teen Triomphe is deceptively roomy, only slightly smaller than the Classique at 18.5 x 14 x 6cm. This smaller variation has quickly made it a favourite, gaining the approval of Celine ambassadors and fans alike. It’s the perfect option for those obsessed with small- or mini-sized bags but still wanting a sense of functionality.
With the Triomphe series proven to be a Celine icon, seasonal renditions are aplenty in terms of colours as well as materials. This season, for example, sees a slew of pastel options designed for that much needed pop of colour or to pair with just about any outfit combination ranging from the casual to even corporate.
No matter which you end up choosing, there’s no denying that the Celine Triomphe elevates and does so in timeless fashion.
