Sarah Burton, the visionary designer who led Alexander McQueen for over a decade, is now set to take on a new chapter at Givenchy as its creative director. Burton will be preside over all of the Maison’s Women’s and Men’s collections.
Known for her deep-rooted British sensibility, Burton's transition to the French luxury house marks a significant shift in the fashion landscape, blending her history of bold innovation with the refined aesthetic Givenchy is known for.
"It is a great honour to be joining the beautiful house of Givenchy, it is a jewel," said Burton, who is now poised to become Givenchy’s second female couturier. "I am so excited to be able to write the next chapter in the story of this iconic house and to bring to Givenchy my own vision, sensibility and beliefs."
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Givenchy, founded in 1952 by Hubert de Givenchy, has long been a symbol of Parisian elegance, crafting iconic looks for legends like Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy. Over the years, the House has embraced both modernity and timeless grace, shifting gears with designers like Riccardo Tisci and Clare Waight Keller. It was Keller who made waves as the first female designer for Givenchy and, famously, created Meghan Markle’s wedding dress, solidifying the brand’s contemporary relevance.
Burton's legacy at Alexander McQueen is undeniable. She first stepped into the spotlight in 2010, succeeding McQueen himself after his untimely passing. Under her leadership, the label became known for its dramatic yet romantic collections, often inspired by British history, nature, and Burton's ability to tell a narrative through intricate craftsmanship. Perhaps her most famous moment came when she designed the Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding gown in 2011 – a dress that still resonates as a defining piece of 21st-century fashion.
With Burton’s history of blending the fantastical with the wearable, her tenure at Givenchy promises an exciting new era. Her meticulous attention to detail and respect for couture traditions will likely reinvigorate the house's storied codes while offering a fresh perspective on modern luxury. Fashion lovers everywhere are waiting with anticipation to see what her debut collection will unveil.
When will she show her first collection with the House?
Burton is expected to present her first collection for Givenchy during Paris Fashion Week in March 2025.