Givenchy has something exciting in store for us. With its Fall/Winter 2023 collection we bear witness a new elegance, a contemporary study of glamour, and a re-contextualisation of archetypes.
Artistic Director Matthew M. Williams, using codes integral to the Maison, has created a collection that mirrors the principles of elegance founded by Hubert de Givenchy. The dressing culture of the arts-driven community of women that surrounds him today has inspired this searing sophistication.
The collection strikes a balance between the new and the old, with silhouettes, constructions, and styling informed by the past but adapted for the present. Defined by magnified volumes, the tailoring cuts a strong shoulder with a softly nipped-in waist, achieved without constriction. Black coats, crafted in satin, tricotine, cashmere, or mohair, are sculpted with inverted pleats either at the back or with buttons at the waist, giving a modern twist to a classic piece.
But that’s not all! The collection also explores the dialogue between Parisian chic and American cool, formalising sports – and workwear. Traditional sweats and denim pieces have been transformed into elevated interpretations, such as unstructured double-face cashmere coats and jackets, shell jackets lined in shearling, and fluidly flared fine wool trousers. Cosy cashmere knits and stretchy smocked leather dresses also make an appearance, adding a touch of luxury to the collection.
The layering expressions are composed of luxe baggy sweats, delicate jersey tops, cargo pieces, bondage garments, felpa skirts, and kilts, further demonstrating a new understanding of elegance. The collection even features florals adapted from the archives of Hubert de Givenchy, re-evoked in overdyed lasered nylon. Fish motifs also make an appearance, representing a study of imagery – arbitrary or symbolic – that magnetises the contemporary gaze and resonates as glamour.
All in all, Givenchy’s Fall-Winter 2023 Women’s Collection paints a new picture of femininity — expressed in confidence, comfort, and empowerment.
