Creative Director Matthew M. Willams took the personal and autobiographical route this Spring/Summer 2023 season for Givenchy’s latest collection.
Givenchy launched its spring-summer 2023 men’s ready-to-wear collection during this year’s Paris Fashion Week. Creative director Matthew M. Williams drew creative inspiration through the fusion of artisanal craftsmanship and contemporary menswear.
In the courtyard of the École Militaire, Givenchy’s creations mimic the alterations of student uniforms: Pants had slits at the knees to reveal the monogrammed lining.
The collection featured relaxed silhouettes with simple workwear, loose-fitting blazers and biker-inspired outerwear.
The designs adhered to a rather neutral palette, incorporating subtle touches of pigment and texture. Tactical vests complemented with quilted trouser silhouettes achieved head-to-toe looks that were smart for workwear. Attention to detail was paramount in the creation of this new line, as a large number of garments were created from digitally printed waterproof fabric, hand-sewn layers of white and printed nylon, and laser-cut muslin.
In essence, Williams’ designed pieces for Givenchy are truly timeless works of art that utilize the craftsmanship of modern technology.
Unveiling the collection, Williams said:
“Menswear was, quite naturally, the way I discovered fashion. In my practice at Givenchy, my men’s collections came from an instinctive starting point. This show is a reflection of myself and the men who surround me, from my close friends to the artists who inspired my work. It’s a dialogue with the time and culture that shape the way men dress today and tomorrow: the way new generations embrace and evolve the archetypes and dress codes of the past through their own progressive outlook. It’s a thrilling evolution and the reason I have chosen this moment to stage a stand-alone men’s show for Givenchy.”
As regards accessories, the models wore the Givenchy’s special G-Cut glasses, chain link necklaces, bracelets and balaclavas. Moreover, the French fashion house also showcased unique fabrics on the runway. Givenchy made its tactical vests and cargo pants from a digitally printed waterproof fabric. Very appropriate for the moat-style catwalk.
A highlight of the collection was the recently announced TK MX sneakers, making their official debut on the runway.
Throughout the collection, the idea of wear was supported. Some camouflage items were made of white camouflage paint covered with ripstop nylon. When worn, the underlying white camouflage became visible. Elsewhere, over-dyed shell jackets and military parkas referenced their original fluorescent colours through their linings.
