Although this is Matthew Williams’ second RTW collection for Givenchy, it is the first time he is staging a show. In the spirit of ‘go big or go home’, the pre-recorded film was set in a massive stadium that looks like it could accommodate tens of thousands of people. The show begins with models rushing over scaffolding that hinted at the venue being a concert venue. The location makes sense considering Williams’ connection to the music industry, having a head start in his fashion career designing costumes for Kanye West and Lady Gaga.
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For Spring Summer 2021, Williams departed from the more feminine aesthetic set by his predecessor, Clare Waight Keller, and for Fall Winter 2021, the collection has a slight SM influence complete with piercings and studs that meld with tailoring and couture techniques. There are also hardware embellishments on sheer skirts, trimmed in fur fringing, body hugging tops and dresses featuring cup-less bras, as well as an intricate braided gown that was at once elegant and sexy at the same time.
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As for the men’s looks, there are accessories with cat ear balaclavas, dramatic fur coats with exaggerated collars and shoulders, worn with leather skirts and chunky hoof-like boots. These are clothes that make dramatic style statement—definitely not for the faint hearted.
Streetwear influences are also introduced in this collection by way of chunky leather puffer vests, furry baseball caps worn under balaclavas and oversized puffer jackets worn with floor skimming gowns.
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Besides the clothes, the collection is also big on accessories, and Williams’ signature bold hardware. Oversized chains are wrapped around the necks on both men and women; luxurious metallic water bottles hanging off the outfits like badges of honour; and a modular backpack, rendered in various materials.
