In a quiet corner of her Avenue George V office in Paris, Sarah Burton is meticulously crafting the future of Givenchy. Surrounded by relics from the house's storied past, Burton prepares to debut her first collection during the upcoming Paris autumn/winter 2025 shows. Her approach? A deep dive into the archives to uncover the essence of the brand and infuse it with a modern sensibility.

Discover How Sarah Burton Is Redefining Elegance and Craftsmanship at Givenchy

The Legacy Unearthed

The origins of Givenchy are laid out before Burton, not just as historical artifacts but as a blueprint for her creative journey. Beside her sit look books from Hubert de Givenchy’s inaugural collection in 1952. Each page reveals black-and-white images capturing the architectural precision and subtle curves of the designs. These pieces, shot with a near-forensic clarity, evoke a timeless elegance that has inspired countless fashion narratives. The discovery of calico patterns hidden within the walls of the old atelier adds an almost poetic dimension to Burton’s task. It symbolizes the unearthing of the past to forge a new path forward.Burton reflects on the many iterations of Givenchy under different designers over the decades. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the core identity of the house before moving forward. “To go forward, you have to go back to the beginning,” she asserts. This philosophy guides her exploration of the archive, where each piece tells a story of craftsmanship and innovation. Burton’s goal is clear: to distill the essence of Givenchy while introducing fresh perspectives that resonate with today’s audience.

Architectural Precision and Human Touch

Burton’s admiration for the architectural quality of Givenchy’s early designs is evident as she flips through the look books. The silhouettes remind her of Hitchcock films—rigorous in form yet subtly expressive. She notes the use of simple fabrics like cotton and silk, highlighting the purity of the materials. Burton envisions stripping away unnecessary elements to focus on the fundamental aspects of design. For her, fashion should be about creating clothes for real people, not just for social media. The human element is central to Burton’s vision. She speaks fondly of the skilled artisans who bring her ideas to life. “These incredible people, these magicians who still make things with their hands,” she says. Burton believes in the power of collaboration and the emotional connection that can be forged through clothing. Her aim is to create pieces that not only fit perfectly but also evoke a sense of feeling and emotion in those who wear them. This balance between technical precision and human touch defines her approach to design.

A New Era of Tailoring

Tailoring holds a special place in Burton’s heart. She declares, “I love tailoring,” signaling a return to the couture roots of Givenchy. Her intention is to evolve new silhouettes that blend classic tailoring with contemporary flair. At times, the designs will be crisp and sharp, reminiscent of menswear, while at others, they will exude a sensual femininity. Burton aims to create a versatile wardrobe that encompasses both these aesthetics. She emphasizes the importance of silhouette, noting that how a garment looks from behind is just as crucial as its front view. This holistic approach ensures that every angle of the design is considered. Burton’s commitment to excellence in construction and detail promises to deliver a collection that honors Givenchy’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of modern fashion. Her vision is one of timelessness infused with innovation, setting the stage for a new era at the iconic fashion house.