CELINE
MINI 16 in satinated calfskin; PASTEL PINK. AUD 5,300. Photograph courtesy of Celine. In February 2018, Hedi Slimane was appointed the artistic, creative and image director of Celine, after Phoebe Philo‘s departure. It was the same year that he introduced the 16 bag, named after the brand’s address at 16 Rue Vivienne in Paris. The accessory was a symbol of the houses evolving identity, and six on it stands as a hallmark of Hedi Slimane’s vision for the French fashion house.
Drawing inspiration from Celine’s iconic 1960s trapeze shapes, the 16 bag combines classic lines with a smooth, contemporary construction. Its short flap and structured silhouette nod to the past while signalling a bold future for the brand. Beneath the flap lies a central pocket, featuring a rounded cut-out and the bag’s embossed “16” signature. Each bag is individually numbered, further emphasising its exclusivity. A standout feature is the turnstile clasp, secured to a metal plate engraved with “Celine Paris.”
The design is centred on meticulous leatherwork, with a variety of luxurious skins to choose from. The attention to detail extends to the hardware — gold-finished metal rings on the handle, snap hooks on the shoulder strap, and studs on the bottom that protect the bag when placed on the floor.
The classic size, made from black satin calf and natural tan leather, remains the most iconic, though the 16 has since expanded into various styles, each capturing Celine’s chic French spirit.
