An Interview With Fashion Designer Celine b.

By now  Celine b. is not just a label, it’s a mix of classic femininity elevated with modern touches, minimalist designs and unique accessories. This luxury brand specialises in a wide range of eveningwear, from formal gowns to evening dresses to suit any stylish lady. We had the chance to speak to this fashion designer, about everything that makes her tick. 

Where are you from? Can you tell us a little bit about where you grew up?
I was born in Normandy, France. I lived in a very small village with my parents. I am the youngest of four children. I had a very lonely childhood since my siblings were much older than me. So I did a lot of pretend play, drew and painted a lot, made dresses for my Barbie dolls, out of my mom’s skirt linings, with glue!

Where do you spend most of your time now?
During the day, most mornings I am sketching, then in all the fabric markets, accessory markets and in between I meet with my tailors or customers. Night time, you can find me most of the time on the bund, there is a large French community there working in restaurants and bars, they are like a big family for me here in Shanghai. From 4pm-8pm, I try to rush home to be with my boys Maximilien 8, and Marius 5.

Have you always wanted to be a fashion designer?
A fashion designer no, someone who wanted to create something, definitely. In the U.S., I lived in Michigan and fashion did not mean much to most people. I wanted at the time to be a stylist, personal shopper and offer make-overs. Shanghai is definitely the turning point for me, it’s vibrant, alive with an abundance of material, beautiful places to feed my inspiration. All my creations express the love for shanghai nightlife and beautiful events

Who inspires you?
Without a doubt, all the famous designers such as Christian Dior, Oscar de la Renta, Zac Posen, Prabal Gurung. I look at fabrics, feathers at the accessory market and right away want to sketch a new dress, make it bigger and better. It needs to be unique different but always beautiful. I am not an eccentric person. 

Is there anyone famous you’d like to collaborate with?
Anyone passionate about their work, I like the idea of collaborating with a graduate from  a fashion school. I think we can complement each other on many levels. No one famous I guess unless they insist on working with me (laughs). 

In 5 years, where do you see yourself?
Well let’s see, probably meeting more people who are liking my brand, wearing my dresses at special events, hopefully seeing more people in my studio team and branching out further and wider. 

What does being ’stylish’ mean to you?
A stylish person is someone who paid attention to all the details, she knows how to combine colours with her clothes, choose her make-up, hair style and finally her accessories; whether she is going on a casual business meeting or a cocktail event. Nothing is left behind.

Edith Zamora

You can find Celine b. online and uploading on Instagram.