Say it Ain’t So! Rumor Mill Has Phoebe Philo Leaving Celine
Unlike the ones in a high school cafeteria, fashion rumors are often true—which means today’s Page Six headline, about Phoebe Philo saying adieu to Céline, is already causing… more rumors.
So first things first: Here in the Yahoo Style Office, we hear beaucoup chatter from the fashion front lines… but we haven’t heard a peep—yet—that confirms this gossip. The notoriously private mother of three has departed her seemingly unstoppable label before—nine years ago, at Chloé—seeking normalcy and family time that’s elusive when you’re the coolest designer in the world. (Sorry, Kanye. She just is.)
If Philo is staying put, great. (We’ve reached out to Celine for comment, and will update if we hear back.) We’ll happily get in line for whatever bag she whips up this season. If not, here are a few things we hope the 41-year-old style genius might do next.
Start Her Own Line
Being your own boss is tough, but it comes with major rewards like setting your own calendar, even if it’s different from the fashion world’s usual cycle. Philo’s name and talent are mighty enough to sell clothes anytime, anywhere, especially with the 24/7 nature of online shopping. Maybe Philo should take a page from Beyoncé’s “secret album” release, and plant a 20-piece collection online with a few Instagram posts and a mere “surprise!” tweet? It would likely sell out in minutes.
Take Over Balenciaga
Nicolas Ghesquiere and Alexander Wang are over it—but if Philo wants to stay at the forefront of a brand, Balenciaga could be a smart fit. The label needs a boss with strong respect for accessories—something she’s demonstrated ably at Chloé and Céline—plus a forward-thinking vision of how real women with real money buy luxury clothes. The only caveat: Balenciaga has the same parent company (Kering) as Stella McCartney’s eponymous label. Since Philo was once McCartney’s friend, colleague, and sounding board, it might be an awkward family reunion.
Take Over Gap
Seriously. In 2007, Phoebe Philo was reported to be consulting with the mega-chain, leading to several breezy, bohemian pieces that many fashion insiders (me included) still own. If Gap’s shareholders gave the reigns back to Philo—this time in a permanent, public move—it could save their business while elevating fast fashion beyond trendy, disposable fare into affordable wardrobes for smart, cool women. And imagine the ad campaigns…
Star in the Next Season of True Detective
I mean, somebody has to.
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