Clare Waight Keller offers an indulgent take on tried and true tropes of masculinity.
Givenchy’s collection embraced decadence, harkening back to a dandy-esque attitude towards men’s fashion. If you cannot be a cowboy or a rockstar, then why not dress as one? Through a collection that featured cowboy hats, safety pins, and big sunglasses—sometimes at the same time—playfulness was a priority for artistic director Clare Waight Keller. Instead of framing the collection as a means to an end, she conveyed the pleasure of dressing up as an act in and of itself.
The collection provided ample playful opportunities for fashion fanatics, drawing inspiration from a streetwear sensibility without replicating streetwear looks. An oversized logo sweater, a lace-up hoodie, and a sporty nylon jacket were elevated by their pairing with square-toe boots, slim fit trousers, and houndstooth patterning. The brand drew from their tried and true palette of dark and romantic hues, including royal purple, wine red, cobalt, and midnight. Leather layered latex, shearling outlined the hoods, and punk hardware was affixed to the outerwear. The Givenchy man showcased was both sexy and sophisticated, edgy and classic; he was whatever he felt like being for the day. In a sea of minimalism and utilitarianism, Givenchy pushed back with maximalism, offering looks comprised of equally eccentric pieces.
