A Legacy Lives On
Tatler Singapore|July 2024
Trace the timeless influence of French fashion house Givenchy, from its founding by haute couture master Hubert de Givenchy to its contemporary creations today that perpetuate his lasting legacy
Nafeesa Saini
A Legacy Lives On

In 1951, a young and ambitious designer named Hubert de Givenchy founded his namesake fashion house in Paris, marking the dawn of a new era in haute couture. Only 24 years old then, he unveiled his first collection, “Séparables”, featuring elegant blouses and airy gabardine skirts designed for mixing and matching, which were a stark contrast to the constricted headto-toe ensembles that dominated couture at the time. It not only displayed his mastery of design but also set a precedent for freedom in fashion and a desire for personal style expression—hallmarks of his legacy and his maison.

Born in 1927 in Beauvais, northern France, Givenchy was destined for the fashion world. At the tender age of 17, he left for Paris to apprentice at a couture house. He worked for revered fashion designers, including Elsa Schiaparelli, where he quickly ascended to the role of artistic director of the maison’s boutique on Place Vendôme.

In 1953, he met his muse, British film icon Audrey Hepburn. Their decades-long friendship led to several defining moments in cinematic fashion, like when Hepburn wore the strapless white ball gown in Sabrina (1954) and the iconic “little black dress” in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961). In 1957, the couturier created the cult classic perfume L’Interdit, dedicating it to Hepburn, who also became the face of the scent.

Beyond women’s fashion, Givenchy expanded his influence with the launch of “Givenchy Gentleman” in 1969, marking the brand’s foray into menswear. The house began to diversify its creations, designing shoes, upholstery, tableware and even interiors of hotels around the world.

Esta historia es de la edición July 2024 de Tatler Singapore.

Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.

Esta historia es de la edición July 2024 de Tatler Singapore.

Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.

MÁS HISTORIAS DE TATLER SINGAPOREVer todo
Mathew Leong
Tatler Singapore

Mathew Leong

As the Norway-based Singaporean chef celebrates a milestone year both personally and professionally, he opens up about the toughest moments of his career and why failing is not an option

time-read
3 minutos  |
November 2024
Asian Inspirations
Tatler Singapore

Asian Inspirations

Chef Ace Tan on his second restaurant, Asu-his love letter to regional Asian cuisine

time-read
4 minutos  |
November 2024
State of the Arts
Tatler Singapore

State of the Arts

Arts nominated member of parliament Usha Chandradas discusses growing the creative economy by focusing on both supply and demand

time-read
4 minutos  |
November 2024
Through a Curator's Lens
Tatler Singapore

Through a Curator's Lens

Circe Henestrosa, a fashion curator and the head of the School of Fashion at Lasalle College of the Arts, University of the Arts Singapore, merges her personal connection with artist Frida Kahlo with her extensive curatorial experience to explore intersecting themes of identity, disability and cultural heritage

time-read
4 minutos  |
November 2024
Second Nature
Tatler Singapore

Second Nature

Poet and educator Yong Shu Hoong brings fresh perspectives to the helm of the Singapore Writers Festival, from interdisciplinary perspectives to multilingual programmes

time-read
3 minutos  |
November 2024
Wine Down
Tatler Singapore

Wine Down

Nothing wraps up the day like a nice glass of vino. From flashy hedonistic escapades to geeky watering holes, these new wine bars promise celebrated viniferous pours that will please even the most discerning of oenophiles

time-read
3 minutos  |
November 2024
A Legacy in Silhouettes
Tatler Singapore

A Legacy in Silhouettes

Kristina Blahnik, CEO of the designer shoe brand Manolo Blahnik and the niece of its legendary founder, shares her insights on preserving the house's heritage and introduces the new Manolo's Silhouettes campaign

time-read
4 minutos  |
November 2024
To Have and to Hold
Tatler Singapore

To Have and to Hold

With its sumptuous textures, Loro Piana's elegant autumn/winter 2024 collection is a chic celebration of craft, quality and the universal appeal of tactility

time-read
2 minutos  |
November 2024
Scent of Strength
Tatler Singapore

Scent of Strength

Hermès unveils its first chypre perfume, Barénia―a captivating fragrance crafted by renowned perfumer Christine Nagel that embodies bold femininity and celebrates the brand's rich heritage

time-read
2 minutos  |
November 2024
Nocturnal Revival
Tatler Singapore

Nocturnal Revival

Nighttime skincare rituals will get a boost of supercharged restoration with La Mer's new Rejuvenating Night Cream

time-read
2 minutos  |
November 2024