I’ve been discreetly using Celine's new Luggage Bag for several weeks—it’s sure to become the next must-have trend.
Everything old comes back around. This certainly applies to luxury fashion, particularly with the myriad reproductions of iconic designer handbags. It appears that creative directors, regardless of the brand or era, are choosing to revive nearly-forgotten silhouettes over creating new accessories—and they seem to be achieving greater success in this approach. A perfect example of this trend is the enthusiasm surrounding the return of the Celine Phantom bag, now known as the Celine New Luggage bag. The revival of bags from the indie sleaze era, such as Chemena Chamali’s remake of the Chloé Paddington or Balenciaga’s contemporary iteration of Nicolas Ghesquière’s Motorcycle bag, has become standard practice. However, the resurgence of this Old Céline classic has resonated more profoundly than any other.
Could it be that enough time has elapsed since Phoebe Philo’s era for the bag to achieve vintage status? Or is it simply that the brand’s customer base longs for something familiar after her departure? After using the popular shape for a week, I believe that both elements contribute equally to the style’s strong appeal. The excitement surrounding this revived piece emphasizes that exceptional design and a dedicated following will always succeed.
With the Celine New Luggage bag now appearing on the elegant marble shelves of Celine boutiques worldwide, it’s time to move beyond the context of its popularity or the reasons for its unprecedented reception. What we need to focus on are the practical aspects: how much can it actually hold, how does the modern version compare to the original, and, most importantly, does it live up to the hype?
As someone fortunate enough to obtain the exclusive style just days before its official launch, I kept these factors in mind while testing the Celine New Luggage bag. Below, you’ll find answers to your pressing questions, along with an in-depth review from a fashion writer and insights on whether it’s a wise investment. (And yes, carrying it around definitely stirred some style envy!)
What is the Celine New Luggage Bag?
The Celine New Luggage bag is a fresh take on a classic design that Michael Rider, the brand’s current creative director, introduced during his debut Spring 2026 collection. Given that this season revolves around renewal and transformation, Rider pays homage not only to one of Celine’s most significant creations but also to the rich history it embodies. Rider is no stranger to Celine; he previously worked under Philo, making this not just a return but a homecoming. He chose to hold his first show at the brand’s headquarters at 16 Rue Vivienne, creating a full-circle moment. The brand echoed this sentiment in a press release, stating that the New Luggage embodies "elegance yet effortlessness, connecting the past to the present through a contemporary silhouette."
What’s the Difference Between the Celine Phantom and the Celine New Luggage Bag?
While Celine also offers a bag with a similar shape called the Luggage, it’s crucial to clarify that the New Luggage is not paying tribute to that design but instead to the Phantom. The Phantom was first introduced in Celine’s Pre-Fall 2011 collection, featuring a black croc-embossed version that was showcased alongside stunning cream shearling coats and mod-inspired outfits, with a color palette that drew inspiration from Piet Mondrian, albeit in softer tones. Over the years, it attracted numerous celebrity fans, including Rihanna, Gwyneth Paltrow, and the Kardashian-Jenners, cementing its status as a highly sought-after accessory of the decade.
Structurally, there are several notable differences between the Celine Phantom and the Celine New Luggage bag. The former had a more boxy shape, while the latter showcases an exaggerated east-west style with protruding wings and zippers that extend beyond the flaps. Moreover, the primary zip on the body is more pronounced, giving the bag a distinct anthropomorphic quality, augmented by an upward-turned or "smiling" zip. While the Phantom also has this grin, it is more pronounced in the New Luggage. Additionally, Rider’s design offers more space, distinguishing it from Philo’s version. While the Phantom functioned as more of a day bag, this design is akin to an elongated tote that’s ideal for travel. Both bags feature recognizable wavy lines cascading down their sides, a nod to the Mistral bag created by Celine’s founder, Céline Vipiana, in 1969.
Celine New Luggage Bag, Reviewed By an Editor
On a bright, sunny day in London, I escaped the office briefly to explore the picturesque Italian Gardens in Hyde Park, carrying my new obsession, the Celine New Luggage bag. Dressed in my version of Parisian style—a large wool-silk blazer from Henne, ombré jeans, and mesh ballet flats from Dear Frances—I couldn’t shake the feeling of being in the
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I’ve been discreetly using Celine's new Luggage Bag for several weeks—it’s sure to become the next must-have trend.
Is it superior to the original, however?
