Givenchy explores lightness with its Spring/Summer 2024 collection

A reflection of a more vibrant and feminine side of the fashion brand.

Over the course of three years as artistic director at Givenchy, Matthew M. Williams has instinctively been focusing on meticulous tailoring and distinguishing separates that neatly marry femininity with his signature assertiveness. The subdued and elegant design aesthetic has developed gradually, with a glimpse of the possibilities in his eveningwear last season – and now, a complete showcase in his Spring/Summer 2024 collection.

“Elegance is instinctive. An inherent sensibility, it is founded in codes that seduce our shared sense of sophistication: the drape of a chiffon dress, the curve of a sculpted neckline, the grace of a hand-painted flower. For the Spring/Summer 2024 Women’s Collection, Givenchy reflects on a collective comprehension of elegance as shaped by the genetics of its own heritage and a present-day desire for simplicity,” the show notes say.

Strong jackets and coats were layered over sheer slip dresses, midi skirts, and fluid blouses in a collection that played with the dichotomy between firm and flexible forms in bodies of lace, satin, and wool. The translucent overlays on the dresses stood out, revealing the intricate beadwork that went into constructing them. Williams’s distinctive style is visible but tastefully done, with stylistic features such as sharp stilettos enveloped by a mesh overlay that extends into a boot form with an ankle strap. Accessories, notably small bags with buckles (inspired by the Voyou bag) and elbow-length gloves, were ubiquitous.

Credit: Givenchy

Colours like black, deep browns, mint greens and cobalt blues predominated, while the collection explored minimalism with floral prints. “An undying symbol of elegance, the flower is entrenched within the archives of Hubert de Givenchy whose passion for gardens Matthew M. Williams shares as a source of recreation and inspiration,” the notes read. “Lace, a trope of elegance central to the Maison, is re-activated in the volants of dresses. Jewels transform into clothing in latticed pearl, glass and crystal grid dresses and skirts.” Mud silk, a Ming Dynasty dying process in which silk is submerged in river mud for an undulating leathery texture, was also employed in the collection.

Overall, Givenchy’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection represents the brand’s more vibrant and feminine side, with a diverse appeal that resonated with a wide spectrum of audiences.