From Parisian Roots to Global Fashion Leadership
Séverine Merle has spent her career shaping the direction of some of the world’s most respected luxury houses. With academic foundations from Sciences Po, Université Paris-Dauphine, and an MBA from ESSEC Business School, she entered the industry with a deep understanding of both cultural heritage and commercial strategy.
Her early years at Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche honed her retail instincts, while senior commercial and merchandising roles at Louis Vuitton gave her global exposure and operational depth. These experiences laid the groundwork for her rise to the upper echelons of luxury leadership.
The CEO Who Reimagined CELINE
When Merle took the helm of CELINE in 2017, the brand was respected but poised for reinvention. She made a decisive move in 2018 by appointing Hedi Slimane as Creative, Artistic & Image Director, an appointment that marked a strategic turning point.
Under her leadership, CELINE expanded beyond its womenswear roots, launching menswear and fragrance as new pillars of growth. This evolution positioned CELINE as a more complete lifestyle brand while maintaining its Parisian elegance.
Building Growth Through Creative Strategy
Merle’s approach balances bold creative vision with disciplined business execution. By embracing Slimane’s contemporary edge and pairing it with CELINE’s heritage, she attracted a new generation of consumers while retaining loyal clients.
Her initiatives have not only strengthened CELINE’s cultural relevance but also expanded its product universe, driving the brand toward billion-dollar status within the LVMH portfolio.
Influence Beyond the Brand
From 2019 to 2021, Merle served as President of the Chambre Syndicale de la Mode Masculine, a role in which she shaped industry standards for men’s fashion in France. Her influence extended beyond CELINE, contributing to the broader evolution of luxury menswear.
Recognized in The Business of Fashion’s BoF 500, she stands among the industry’s most impactful leaders, proof of her ability to blend artistry, commerce, and cultural awareness at the highest level.
Leading With Vision in a Changing Luxury Landscape
For Merle, expansion does not mean losing sight of the brand’s core. As she has stated, “Menswear is a new vector for growth; womenswear will remain the most important part.” This philosophy reflects her commitment to strategic diversification without compromising brand DNA.
Her tenure at CELINE continues to be defined by smart category expansion, meticulous brand positioning, and an instinctive feel for how luxury consumers connect with creativity.
