A Legacy Lives On

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

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.