After three years at the helm, Claire Waight Keller revealed she would be leaving Givenchy behind earlier this year. Upon her departure from Givenchy as Artistic Director, there was much debate about who would be her replacement. Now, we know exactly who will be assuming the position: 1017 Alyx 9SM founder, Matthew M Williams.
In a rather unexpected announcement, Williams revealed that he would be leading Givenchy, replacing Waight Keller. The 34-year-old Californian designer will relocate to Italy and take up his first major artistic director position at the LVMH owned label. Whether or not this is a plan to make Givenchy match up to Louis Vuitton’s growth under Virgil Abloh remains to be seen.
William’s 1017 Alyx 9SM label, which is only five years old, has already experienced enormous growth in a short space of time. Backed by Italian fashion behemoth Slam Jam, Alyx has continued to beat revenues year on year. After receiving an LVMH Prize finalist nomination in 2016, Alyx launched its first menswear line the following year. Since then, it has surpassed the women’s wear, becoming one of the most recognised labels on the planet.
In a statement on Instagram, Williams explained that:
“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.”
Renaud de Lesquen, CEO and President of Givenchy, stated:
“I want to warmly welcome Matthew M. Williams to the beautiful Maison Givenchy. I am convinced that, with his unapologetic approach to design and creativity and in great collaboration with the Maison’s exceptional ateliers and teams, Matthew will help Givenchy reach its full potential.”
Following on from Keller’s position, Williams will be responsible for the: oversight and development of creative ideas in menswear, womenswear, accessories and reimagining the brand image. Given the fact that Alyx has experienced so much growth in such a short space of time, Givenchy will no doubt expect Williams to bring that same formula to the Parisian label.
This news is extremely exciting to see, with William’s signature design aesthetic making its way to a major label. What are you hoping to see from Williams appointment at Givenchy?
