CLAIRE WAIGHT KELLER FOR GIVENCHY
Claire Waight Keller’s first major move for Givenchy was seen by millions of people around the world when Meghan Markle wedded Prince Harry in a ground breaking royal ceremony in London. Her minimalist couture wedding gown put Givenchy on a whole new level of luxury. But Claire’s journey started in ready-to-wear when she joined Gucci as a senior designer for womenswear through the suggestion of Tom Ford to the brand. She then transferred to Pringe of Scotland and then Chloe and recreated new worlds of femininity for the brands. But it was in the house of Givenchy where she currently flourishes. First adding her spark to the accessories with the GV3 bag with the Givenchy logo clasp and gold hardware for other pieces such as their slip-ons and heels, Claire knew how to honor the house but bringing it into the 21st century market. Another Givenchy bag that is soon to be iconic is Claire’s Eden bag that redefines the shoulder messenger bag. Her ready-to-wear collections were reminiscent of what Phoebe Philo would create for Celine but of course with the infusion of Givenchy’s design aesthetic—pieces constructed for women but stands out because of its Givenchy edge. Couture was another area where Claire fell in love in. From her first show to the Fall 2019 couture show, we see a progression of taking the iconic Givenchy shapes and texture into an ultra-chic and contemporary collections. Her deep respect for the house and its inclination to red carpet dressing was mixed with a certain kind of confidence and freedom that allowed her to experiment with the new Givenchy she is creating for lovers of fashion like us.