PFW – Givenchy A/W 2013 collection

For the Givenchy show, we were very much looking forward to a strong narrative threading together the outfits and the overall theme of the show.

Designer Riccardo Tisci having grown up in a house full of women; knows the feminine mind. He knows women are strong and passionate, and yet can still have a good cry at a film such as Bambi. With that being said, the image of Bambi actually made its appearance on the ever so popular Givenchy sweater throughout the show.

Often known to avoid typical seasonal trends and often using a restrained palette, we definitely were interested to see what the Autumn/Winter collection had in store for us.

The Givenchy woman is a strong, powerful female and knows exactly what she wants. This message and voice filters straight through to their outfits and this is what Givenchy does fantastically well.

Although the message gives out an ultimately powerful and strong vibe, there is a beautiful contrast with a sweet, soft woman being shown through different fabrics and colours. Sheer paneling layered over harsh leather with zips is a perfect example of the contrast.

The models took to the runway with hair the colour of Pepto-Bismol and a strong make-up focusing on perfect skin and strong brows. The clothes had beautiful deep tones and a lot of black was involved.

Our personal favourite piece was the Bambi jumper, something so commercial and readily available being paired with strong, designer pieces is what this fashion house does so well.

The show notes mentioned the inspiration being from ‘strength of the Gypsies’ paired with the ‘romanticism of the Victorians’, again relying on that contrast of feelings, emotions and even textures.

Although there was plenty of leather-look outfits, zips and studs aplenty, the lace and delicate floral prints were not expected to make an appearance and they absolutely lightened up some of the harsher looks.

Although this collection was a definite trend-setter, last season felt a lot slicker in terms of how the looks pulled together. However, we absolutely loved this slightly grungey and eclectic collection and the Bambi sweater? Definitely on the wish list.

Jade Stokes