Givenchy by Julien Macdonald: Getting The Hang Of It
By: Mari Davis

PARIS, Mar 9, 2004/ FW/ --- Hubert de Givenchy is a hard act to follow, that’s for sure. Dressing Audrey Hepburn in almost all of her famous movies from Sabrina, Funny Face, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Charade, the public has a certain expectation for the French fashion house.

Julien Macdonald since January with his Haute Couture Spring 2004 collection and now with his Fall 2004 ready-to-wear looks, finally had gotten the hang of it.

Last January, the fashion press and couture clientele all agreed that Julien Macdonald presented his best collection for Givenchy, and last Friday, the London-based designer proved that it was not a fluke, but rather, where he could bring the house if he decided to stay.

But everything is theoretical now. Julien Macdonald had announced that this would be his last collection for Givenchy. Which is too bad, really, because his exuberance that is usually seen in his London shows has finally taken a train ride on the Eurostar and reached Paris.

So, what does the Givenchy lady can expect come fall? Lots of beautiful looks.

There’s the body-hugging catsuits paired with flat ballet pumps, and matched with a cropped leather jacket just under the bustline.

The leather black dress has a jewel neckline with a bib – a look that can go anywhere, making this dress very versatile.

1960s inspired mohair coats and cocktail dresses with ruffles at the hem and satin short-cropped jackets with Peter Pan collars and embroidery.

It’s not vintage Audrey Hepburn look. The designer opted to make it more contemporary, rather than traditional, which was a great move.

Though a lot of people are in love with the 1960s, they don’t want to look dated either. Julien Macdonald captured Audrey Hepburn’s elegance and put her on the 21st century.

The House of Givenchy is currently in flux. Last Feb 19th, the company announced the appointment of Marco Gobbetti as CEO of Givenchy after the resignation of Marianne Tesler.

Givenchy also hired Ozwald Boateng as menswear designer, as the house tries to repeat Dior’s success with two different designers for womenswear and menswear lines.

With Julien Macdonald vacating his post, Givenchy is once again in the process of looking for a replacement. There had been no official release from Givenchy on who will be succeeding the London-based designer.

Givenchy by Julien Macdonald

Givenchy by Julien Macdonald

Givenchy by Julien Macdonald

Givenchy by Julien Macdonald