With the helping hands of Adut Akech, Meadow Walker and Bella Hadid, for AW21, Matthew Williams gives us a history lesson in all things Givenchy.
Pictured: Meadow Walker
Pictured: Meadow Walker
Fusing both mens and womenswear, this season Matthew Williams makes it clear that Givenchy belongs to the dancefloor. Set to run over thumping techno courtesy of Robert Hood, the likes of Jourdan Dunn, Adut Akech, Bella Hadid & Paul Walker’s daughter Meadow were all in attendance, sporting the house’s latest (and most cosy) wears as they strutted up and down the runway in search of their pals before entering the rave.
“In many ways, this collection is about a constant tension between two worlds,” says Matthew Williams. “It’s about finding personal meaning in difficult circumstances; it’s about sincerity in what we do rather than strategy. We wanted to bring a sense of lived reality alongside precision, elegance and extravagance in the clothing and looks. Ultimately, fashion for us is a way of being, feeling and connecting rather than a game to be played. It’s almost like monumentalising the everyday, filling it with emotion – like music you can wear.”
Pictured: Meadow Walker
Puffa-coats, fur snoods and knitted balaclavas dominated the collection, alongside slinky evening gowns paired with chunky, statement chains. Coats were given fur trims, and heels were covered in lipstick-red latex with rhinestones aplenty as an ode to Williams’ predecessor, Clare Waight Keller and possibly even Givenchy’s not-so-golden-boy, Alexander McQueen. Riccardo Tisci also got a look-in with Williams’ paisley crowns, cut-out bras, and a selection of the sleekest leather bags known to man. It’s clear that in order to forge Givenchy’s future, Williams is making sure that we’re well aware of its past.
But in all seriousness, can you imagine turning looks like this in the next ice age? Best believe you’ll be the most stunning at the log cabin – fighting polar bears in an oversized cream coat, bejewelled gown and thick, clompy heels – it’s too legendary for words.