Givenchy

The King of casual-chic, Hubert de Givenchy was amongst some of the first big fashion designers to release a line of ready-to-wear womenswear in the 50’s. The Givenchy collections were all the rage all over the world, especially the ‘little black dresses’, which were inspired by the care-free Audrey Hepburn, a famous patron for the brand. The first menswear collection, named ‘Gentleman Givenchy’, was brought out in 1973.

At the height of his success, Mr Givenchy decided to step down from his fashion throne in 1995 and leave the fashion house. The 10 years following this saw the Givenchy fashion house step out of the spotlight slightly. A series of talented and British designers took up the post of artistic director during this period, including John Galliano and Alexander McQueen.

It wasn’t until 2005 that the Givenchy fashion house finally found the eccentric designer that they were in desperate need of: Riccardo Tisci. Thanks to his energy and drive, and love for all things theatrical, Riccardo Tissci gave Givenchy a complete overhaul, relighting its fashion flame and making it one of the biggest luxury labels in the world today.

Romantic, vivid and sometimes gothic, the Givenchy menswear collections are always bold. The fashion-forward designer is well known for his statement oriental and wild prints, and his tendency to play with the boundaries of what is acceptable in fashion. His success is down to his great ability to find the perfect balance between sophistication and vulgarity.