In a stunning new reveal, Givenchy graces the fashion world with its Pre-Fall 2023 collection – a captivating beachwear capsule christened ‘Givenchy Plage.’ This line seamlessly weaves together the relaxed elegance of the French Riviera and the vivacious spirit of California, offering a fresh perspective on beachside glamour.
‘Givenchy Plage’ stands as a striking reflection of the ongoing dialogue between the timeless Parisian essence of the brand and the distinctly American flair introduced by its creative director, Matthew M. Williams. The collection is a harmonious blend of traditional and modern, combining the sophisticated tailoring and meticulous couture detailing characteristic of the brand’s founder, Hubert de Givenchy, with Williams’ contemporary sensibilities and grasp of streetwear elements.
Drawing inspiration from the exquisite lifestyle and serene color palette of Le Clos Fiorentina – the idyllic seaside estate of Hubert de Givenchy in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat – this collection encapsulates a unique fusion of luxury and leisure. ‘Givenchy Plage’ invites you to experience the essence of elegance, underpinned by a cool, contemporary twist.
Evoking a reimagined vision of the brand’s esteemed heritage, the collection presents silhouettes that artfully marry sensuality with effortless charm. Dominating the color palette are hues of pearly pink, a heartfelt homage to the enchanting façades of Le Clos Fiorentina, complemented by classic tones of black, white, and navy.
The chosen fabrics are luxuriously light and fluid, with materials such as silk, cotton, and nylon lending an airy grace to each piece. The prints are both striking and sophisticated, showcasing graphic and geometric patterns that echo the house’s emblematic motifs. This carefully curated blend of elements elevates the collection, reaffirming Givenchy’s commitment to innovation while honoring its iconic past.
This all-encompassing collection boasts both ready-to-wear and accessories, catering to both men and women. The men’s line includes swim shorts, shirts, jackets, pants, and sweaters, offering a blend of laid-back comfort and sophistication. In addition, oversized suits, garment-dyed nylons, and technical sneakers reflect Williams’s signature fusion of urban chic and practicality. The accessories range is no less impressive, featuring sunglasses, bucket hats, sandals, slides, and jewelry, all designed to perfectly complement the attire.
The ‘Givenchy Plage’ capsule collection masterfully reinterprets house signatures, from the beloved Marshmallow wedges to the quintessential G-Tote shoppers. In a compelling fusion of Riviera classics and Californian charm, creative director Matthew M. Williams revamps the iconic marinière with distinctive Givenchy nautical stripes.
These reimagined staples are paired with sun-drenched or skillfully distressed jean shorts and denim mules, offering a relaxed yet fashion-forward look. 4G sneakers and G-Totes adorned with bold white GIVENCHY lettering add a contemporary edge to the line-up, ensuring the collection strikes the perfect balance between timeless elegance and modern allure.
‘Givenchy Plage’ is a celebration of the joyful and unhurried ‘art de vivre’ that resonates with the vision of Matthew M. Williams, the creative director who has been steering Givenchy’s aesthetic direction since 2020. Reflecting on the inspiration behind the collection, Williams shared, “The light is different in the South of France: Monsieur de Givenchy loved Le Clos Fiorentina for its protected, natural beauty and relaxed elegance that was a world away from his busy life in Paris. For Givenchy Plage, I wanted to explore that lifestyle through light and color, especially the pearly pink façades that are so typical of that region.”
This collection, therefore, extends an invitation to immerse yourself in the serene essence of the Riviera lifestyle – a world awash with warmth, vibrancy, and an elegance that exudes effortless chic, encapsulating the very soul of ‘Givenchy Plage.’
The collection stands as a compelling showcase of Williams’s skill in harmonizing his unique vision with the rich heritage of the house he now spearheads. By initiating a dialogue with the roots of Givenchy, he not only enriches his interpretation of the iconic brand but also broadens the scope of his own design lexicon.
The ‘Givenchy Plage’ collection is a testament to Williams’s deep respect for tradition, his keen understanding of the present, and his bold vision for the future, thereby weaving a seamless narrative that bridges the past and the present while anticipating the future of fashion.
