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CELINE TRIOMPHE Shiny Calfskin Shoulder Bag

June 5, 2025

“Triomphe” is a historical-inspired bag that pays homage to CELINE’s founder, Céline Vipiana. With its compact shape and decorative clasp, it’s the most minimalist design in the new collection.

“Triomphe” means “Triumph” in French, named after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The bag revives a 1970s classic design, while the clasp features the “Blason emblem” created by Céline Vipiana herself. From its name to design details, it’s a rediscovery of the brand’s heritage.

· Blason Clasp ·

CELINE founder Celine Vipiana

The Blason emblem was born in 1972, inspired by an unexpected event in the life of founder Céline Vipiana. When her car ran out of gas near the Arc de Triomphe, she noticed the chain details around Place Charles de Gaulle while waiting for assistance. This inspired her to create the Blason pattern featuring two interlocking “C”s.

Left: Chains around Arc de Triomphe
Right: 1970s CELINE bag

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For those familiar with CELINE, the Triomphe naturally recalls the previous classic Classic Box. Indeed, these two bags share similar dimensions, materials, and structure. In a way, Triomphe is Hedi Slimane’s “upgraded” version of the Classic Box.

Left: CELINE Box
Right: CELINE Triomphe

In terms of shape, the Triomphe has a more slender and delicate silhouette with feminine charm, while the Classic Box appears more structured and compact.

Both use calfskin leather, but the Triomphe emphasizes a glossy finish while the Classic Box features a more understated matte texture.

The polished, gleaming Blason emblem serves as a statement of fashion-forward yet classic style. This emblem itself contains intricate details that invite closer inspection, like a small relief decoration by your side.

Lifting the flap reveals a gold-stamped CELINE logo that complements the metal details.

· Three Compartments ·

As an upgraded version of the box bag, the Triomphe improves on practicality with one main compartment flanked by two independent pockets – one more than the Classic Box.

The side view shows that even when fully packed, the bag maintains its elegant silhouette.

The lining is made of lambskin leather, exceptionally soft, with a gold-stamped TRIOMPHE logo inside.

We packed the bag with an iPhone, AirPods, wallet, foundation, tissues, and a small notebook, and there was still room for smaller essentials.

· Versatile Wearing Options ·

The Triomphe comes with an adjustable strap for shoulder or crossbody wear, suitable for women of different heights. Note that the strap is not removable, which creates a more streamlined and elegant look but eliminates the option to carry it as a clutch.

Every metal detail is engraved with the brand logo, including the adjustable strap buckle and the rings connecting to the bag.

· Fashion Look ·

The advantage of minimalism is its versatility, pairing equally well with dresses or jeans. Even slender men can carry it with style. On the runway, models paired it with a metallic-accented one-piece dress, creating an elegant look with a touch of androgynous charm.

CELINE Spring-Summer 2019 Fashion Show