After what feels like centuries of a fashion world without one of the fashion world's most notable designers, fashionistas around the world can breathe again as the queen of quiet luxury makes a return to her throne, this time under a new namesake brand, Phoebe Philo.
If you're not familiar with Philo's work, or it's just been that long that you need a little refresh, let us catch you up to speed. Phoebe Philo is of British heritage, even though she was born in Paris, France. After graduating from Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London, in 1996 Philo began working for Chloé in 1997 as Stella McCartney's design assistant, succeeding her as creative director in 2001.
It was during her time at Chloe and Celine that she designed the cultivated Chloé Paddington handbag, Chloé banana print, Celine scarf-print shirt, Celine camel coat and the Celine ‘Luggage’ tote. The now mother of three continues to live in London with her children and Husband, juggling motherhood and a soon-to-be sell-out luxury fashion house. Her 10-year stint at Celine gained her a fashion fandom only few can be so lucky to ever experience. Her time at the French fashion house revolutionised fashion, so much so that the pieces she designed in her time heading up the house are referred to as “old Celine.”
© GettyNow, this venture wasn’t exactly a shock as back in June 2021 she confirmed that she was seeking an independent venture with minority backing from luxury conglomerate LVMH, but it wasn't until today that we had concrete evidence.
The namesake brand's first collection is titled “A1” and is made up of 150 styles, all boasting the Philo aesthetic we’ve missed so very dearly. As expected, the full collection will be dropping in intervals, with the first available to shop as we speak.
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The modern yet minimalistic first drop is described as “a seasonless, continuous body of work” and features an array of exquisitely tailored coats, square-toed pumps, lots of frills and even an already sold-out necklace.
Here are our top five favourite pieces from the first drop:
How we chose the pieces:
Aesthetic: Céline under Phoebe Philo's creative direction was characterized by a minimalist, modern, and sophisticated aesthetic. Philo, revitalized the brand with her distinctive design philosophy. Her approach emphasized clean lines, subtle details, and a focus on functionality and comfort; we pick the pieces which feature her design signature.
Why you should trust me:
I am Hello! Fashion’s Fashion Features Writer. With a love for all things fashion (the quirkier the better), I can usually be found playing dress-up in my own wardrobe, watching Gilmore Girls for the 8th time or finding new outfit inspo and DIY musts on TikTok, nothing in my closet is safe from a safety-pin bow embellishment. I have been in the styling world for almost 5 years now, specialising in editorial features, luxury campaigns and music videos. As for the world of magazines, I have worked for various digital and print publications around the world, focusing on fashion. Basically, fashion is my bread and butter.
Bombé Oversize Frame Sunglasses In Caramel Acetate
Not dissimilar to traditional ski goggles, these oversized specs are a statement in their own right.
Hand-Combed Embroidered Coat In Cream Viscose
Need I even explain why this makes our top five? Only Philo could make a jacket resembling Big Bird chic.
Long Trench Coat In Black Cotton Drill
It’s this kind of tailoring that the fashion world has been lacking and the exact injection of simplistic creativity it needed.
Mum Necklace In Gold-Plated Sterling Silver
Real ones will remember the Celine Letter Pendant Necklace in brass made famous by Phoebe whilst still at Celine. Could this be its new successor?
Soft Square-Toe Pump 90 In Black Leather
If you thought we didn't need another square-toed pump in our lives then you are unfortunately wrong. These supple leather heels are the definition of sophistication.
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