A new It bag for the ages
The Celine Triomphe blends classic Parisian flair with contemporary cool
THERE IS NOTHING MORE SATISFYING than finding the perfect bag, one that is wearable but not boring, visually intriguing yet not overly flashy. The Celine Triomphe checks all those boxes, and then some.
Modern, classic and timeless all at once, the Triomphe is a blend of old and new, merging a 1970s-era logo designed by founder Celine Vipiana with the sleek aesthetic of current creative director Hedi Slimane.
Its origins are, like its name, quintessentially Parisian – the emblematic inverted-C motif came to Vipiana following a “minor collision” at the Place de l’Etoile (now known as the Place Charles de Gaulle), where the city’s iconic Arc stands. Some 40 years later, Paris-born Slimane joined the house and, after delving into its archives, rediscovered the motif, transforming it into a clasp that now adorns every Triomphe bag.
Since its introduction, the Triomphe has found its way into the arms of countless A-list celebrities, from actress-turned-activist Angelina Jolie to South Korean crossover idol Lisa. The bag has brought Celine’s storied past to the 21st century – and people are loving it.
Certainly, the Triomphe has already proven to be an it-bag, one that will be coveted for a long time to come. Its versatility lies in Slimane’s expert ability to translate simplicity to luxury. There are no bells and whistles here; just clean, strong lines for a powerful – yet understated – look.
Balance is the word here. The gold-finished hardware – another Celine signature – shines just enough to catch the eye, without slipping into garishness. The ornate detailing of the clasp is offset by its otherwise bare silhouette, so there is never too much going on at once.
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That ease helps the Triomphe pair effortlessly with any outfit, from a t-shirt and culottes in the day to a cocktail dress in the evening.
Practicality is, of course, another plus point for the Triomphe. The clasp slides open smoothly with a light press, revealing a lambskin-lined interior. An adjustable strap makes the bag customisable for anyone, regardless of height or proportions.
The original Triomphe comes in two sizes. The larger Classique measures 22.5 cm in width and 16.5 cm in height, with enough room inside for a day out in town. For those seeking a smaller accessory, the Teen comes in at 18.5 cm by 14 cm – still plenty to hold the essentials, including a phone, cardholder and keys. Both versions feature two main compartments and a zip pocket.
Multiple versions of the Triomphe have been introduced in a variety of leathers, colours and textures; new silhouettes have also been released, but all maintain that same je ne sais quoi – an indescribable quality that makes it both alluring and aspirational. Regardless of which version you choose, the Triomphe is expertly constructed, all the while remaining surprisingly light – the bag almost seems to float on the shoulder, even when full.
Teen Triomphe Bag in shiny calfskin in pebble (S$5,400)
The Triomphe’s clean lines are best put on display in Celine’s shiny calfskin. The leather was “meticulously chosen for its balance between shine and transparency”, the house says – and the results surely show for it, with a light sheen and unhindered smoothness. The bag is buttery soft to the touch, in almost-surprising contrast to its sturdy structure.
With its grey hue, the piece on the left is a vision of modernity and class. The ever-so-slightly warm tone complements the hardware stunningly; the gold seems to shine almost twice as bright. Paired with the Triomphe, this piece has a chameleon-like quality – perfect for a streetwear outfit, or to pair with a baby-doll dress.
Chain Shoulder Bag Triomphe in shiny calfskin in jade (S$4,650)
One of Celine’s newer silhouettes for the Triomphe, the Chain Shoulder Bag, features a – you guessed it – chain shoulder strap, in gold to match the clasp. This bag is smaller than the Teen, at 20.5 cm by 10.5 cm, with a single compartment. Still, it maintains the firm structure and cleanness of its larger counterparts. The jade hue seen above provides a youthful counter to the more serious, mature feel of the strap.
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