Yesterday, Givenchy announced the appointment of its new designer, effective of today. Matthew M. Williams, the 34-year-old founder of luxury streetwear-inspired label 1017 ALYX 9SM, known simply as Alyx, will be its new creative director. Matthew M. Williams will take on all creative responsibilities for Women’s and Men’s collections. This marks the designer’s first major director role and a new direction for the LVMH-owned brand. He succeeds Clare Waight Keller after her exit in April, and will present his first collection in Paris in October. Williams will continue to operate Alyx independently.
Matthew M. Williams by Paolo Roversi
It is the second time a designer rooted in street fashion has taken the helm of a major legacy luxury brand, following Virgil Abloh’s hiring at Louis Vuitton in 2018.
It is an interesting and troubled time for the fashion industry in general. According to BoF, «the pandemic is expected to shrink the luxury market by as much as 35 percent this year due to store closures and decreased travel and consumer spending.»
«I believe [Williams’] singular vision of modernity will be a great opportunity for Givenchy to write its new chapter with strength and success,» said Sidney Toledano, chairman and Chief Executive of LVMH’s Fashion Group, in a statement.
Williams will surely focus on materials and sustainability which might attract also new Givenchy costumers as consumers were already demanding more transparency about the environmental impact of fashion products before the pandemic. In light of the recession, quality and craftsmanship will likely take on even greater weight for shoppers. Let’s see what the future brings…
Matthew M. Williams states: «I am extremely honored to join the House of Givenchy. The Maison’s unique position and timeless aura make it an undeniable icon and I am looking forward to working together with its ateliers and teams, to move it into a new era, based on modernity and inclusivity. I am grateful to the LVMH group for trusting me with the opportunity to fulfill my lifelong dream. In these unprecedented times for the world, I want to send a message of hope, together with my community and colleagues, and intend to contribute towards positive change.»
Matthew M. Williams will present his first collection for the House of Givenchy in Paris in October.
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LoL, Sandra
Photos: © Paolo Roversi for Givenchy
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