Mr Hedi Slimane has long been renowned for his uncanny ability to interpret and reflect the constantly shifting nature of youth culture. Since taking over as creative director at CELINE in 2018 and introducing menswear to the French house for the first time in its history, Mr Slimane has executed his vision for the brand with characteristic verve.

His new collection for CELINE HOMME is called “The Dancing Kid”, and it’s a wild, carefree celebration of self-expression that’s rooted firmly in the turning-point mood of the 2020s. Featuring collaborations with a number of contemporary artists, as well as leopard-print hoodies, loopback sweatpants, acid-wash denim, colourful track jackets and recognisably Slimane tailoring, it holds up a mirror to the creative, eclectic nature of youth culture today. 

In keeping with its restless, freewheeling spirit, as well as its skate culture influences, we photographed the collection on New York street skater Mr Keith “Shredmaster” Hardy, who takes us on a day- and night-long journey through Manhattan’s Lower East Side. If dance floors look set to remain empty for some time yet, Mr Hardy, like so many of Mr Slimane’s inspirations for “The Dancing Kid”, offers a timely reminder that the spirit of dressing well lies in enjoying the clothes we wear, no matter where we are.