Cèline on CELINE: A Red Lipstick As a Statement

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by Cèline Azem

Cèline on CELINE: A Red Lipstick As a Statement

15 Sept 2024

Cèline Azem, Curator and Director at Firetti Contemporary, is not only an art expert — she is also a devoted red lipstick enthusiast. So, when we asked her to try out Celine’s new lipstick, she was all in. Here is what she had to say.

When I think of Celine, a few keywords instantly pop into my mind: class, beauty, elegance, and — let’s be honest — a little edge. I mean, this applies to the brand, of course... and maybe to anyone lucky enough to be named Celine. (Yes, I am looking at myself here, haha!)

So, when I heard about the launch of Celine Beauté, it was love at first mention. Obviously, the first thing that crossed my mind was the perfect red lip — the one I have been obsessively hunting down forever. Forget “diamonds are a girl’s best friend” — I am pretty sure it is lipstick. Specifically haute couture lipstick. The kind that instantly makes you feel glamorous, confident, bold, and, frankly, unstoppable.

And let’s face it: a red lip isn’t just makeup; it is a statement. It is an open invitation to embrace your inner powerhouse. But what else does Celine's latest venture have in store? Let’s dive in and find out.

Celine Beauté: a new era of luxe

Celine Beauté, created by Hedi Slimane in 2023, marks the first time the brand has dipped its toes into cosmetics. It is an exciting extension of the brand’s Haute Parfumerie collection, which debuted in 2019. But this isn't just your everyday beauty line. We are talking about beautifully designed bottles, pencils, cases, and a range of luxurious objects that elevate beauty rituals into art forms. (And honestly, with all the attention to detail, from the textures to the scent, you will almost feel guilty using them — almost.)

But this launch isn’t just about adding a new product line; it is about deepening the cultural essence of Celine. Slimane has carefully crafted a French vision of femininity and allure, and Celine Beauté brings that vision to life in ways that are sophisticated, timeless, and — dare I say — totally irrésistible.

Rouge Triomphe: my perfect red (finally!)

At the heart of this collection is the pièce de résistance: the satin-finish Parisian red lipstick, Rouge Triomphe. Spoiler alert: it is the perfect red — exactly what I have been searching for. Encased in a faceted gold sheath embossed with Celine's iconic couture monogram, this lipstick exudes allure.

Launching as part of Celine Beauté’s Fall 2024 collection, Rouge Triomphe blends timeless beauty with a hint of glam. If you are a lover of all things chic (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), this one is a must for your collection!

Pout power: a muse's ritual

Launching in January 2025, the Le Rouge Celine lipstick collection will feature 15 stunning satin-finish shades, including the classic nude "La Peau Nue." Each shade is more than just a colour; it is a bold declaration that aligns perfectly with Celine’s signature style. From striking reds to soft nudes, the collection offers something for everyone.

What sets these shades apart are their evocative names. Take “Nightclubbing,” a daring deep purple designed for those unforgettable nights out, ready to make its mark.

But Celine Beauté is more than just makeup — it is a ritual, an experience. It is about taking the time to indulge, transforming beauty into an intimate expression of who you are.

Formula, fragrance & texture: all the sensory details

Of course, the formula is just as luxe as the packaging. With 89% natural-origin ingredients — oils, squalane, sunflower wax, rice wax, and beeswax — you can expect nothing less than long-lasting radiance and deep hydration. Plus, Hedi Slimane’s clean beauty standards shine through, so you can feel good about what you are putting on your lips.

Oh, and let’s talk about the scent for a minute. It is the softest hint of rose and rice powder, a vintage-inspired fragrance that takes you right back to the 70s. (Trust me, it is like nothing else.) Combine that with the creamy, satin-finish texture, and you have got a lipstick that feels as chic as haute couture fabric.

A work of art — literally

Now, let’s appreciate the lipstick case itself. It is inspired by 18th-century French classicism and Art Deco minimalism—because, of course, Slimane wouldn’t settle for anything less. The faceted gold metal sheath for the lipstick and the silver version for the lip balm are works of art. The Maison’s emblem, "Triomphe," is embossed on the top, with the promise of timelessness engraved around the centre: "Le Rouge Celine Paris."

And because luxury is all about the details, this refillable gem comes in its own black velvet protective pouch, cushioned in a stunning white paper box with a "grain de poudre" feel and Grand Siècle-style embossing.

A final word & an au revoir kiss from my Rouge Triomphe lips

Celine Beauté isn’t just another cosmetics line. It is a continuation of Celine’s commitment to effortless elegance, high-quality craftsmanship, and Parisian chic. Hedi Slimane has seamlessly brought the essence of Celine, into the beauty world, and I, for one, can’t wait to see what each new season reveals.

Because, let’s face it, nothing beats the power of a haute couture red lip. And with Le Rouge Celine, that iconic look just got even more luxurious.

by Cèline Azem