androgyny givenchy 2017 | A First Look at the New Givenchy

The year 2017 marked a significant turning point for the esteemed fashion house Givenchy. Following the departure of Riccardo Tisci, Clare Waight Keller stepped into the role of Artistic Director, ushering in a new era for the brand. While Tisci’s tenure was characterized by gothic romance, street style influences, and a strong emphasis on celebrity collaborations, Waight Keller’s arrival signaled a shift towards a more refined, sophisticated, and notably, androgynous aesthetic. The teasers released leading up to her first collections hinted at this transformation, sparking considerable buzz within the fashion industry. This article delves into the androgynous themes that permeated Givenchy's 2017 collections, examining the broader cultural context of androgyny in fashion that year, and exploring Waight Keller's approach to gender fluidity in comparison to her predecessor. We will analyze specific collections, runway shows, and celebrity appearances to understand how Givenchy, under Waight Keller's direction, contributed to the ongoing dialogue surrounding gender identity and fashion.

Androgyny: A Defining Trend of 2017

The year 2017 was undoubtedly a pivotal moment for androgyny in the fashion world. The lines between traditional masculine and feminine styles were becoming increasingly blurred, reflecting a wider societal shift towards greater acceptance and celebration of gender fluidity. This trend was evident across various platforms, from high-fashion runways to street style trends and celebrity wardrobes. Designers were experimenting with traditionally gendered silhouettes, fabrics, and details, creating collections that challenged conventional notions of beauty and style.

The rise of androgyny wasn't just a fleeting trend; it represented a deeper cultural movement. It coincided with increased visibility and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, a growing awareness of gender identity as a spectrum, and a general rejection of rigid social norms. Fashion, as a powerful form of self-expression, became a vehicle for individuals to explore and express their identities in ways that transcended traditional gender binaries.

Articles like "Androgynous Is Having A Moment in 2017, and We" highlighted this growing trend, pointing to the increasing number of designers embracing gender-neutral clothing and the rising popularity of androgynous models and influencers. This shift was not simply about borrowing elements from the opposite gender; it was about creating a new aesthetic that celebrated individuality and challenged preconceived notions of what it meant to be masculine or feminine.

A First Look at the New Givenchy Under Clare Waight Keller

Clare Waight Keller's appointment at Givenchy was met with anticipation and curiosity. She brought with her a wealth of experience, having previously served as the artistic director of Chloé, where she was known for her feminine and romantic designs. However, her debut collections for Givenchy revealed a new facet of her creative vision, one that incorporated a more powerful androgynous sensibility.

The initial teasers and announcements surrounding Waight Keller's arrival hinted at this shift. They suggested a departure from the overtly sexualized imagery that had sometimes characterized Tisci's work, and a move towards a more understated and sophisticated aesthetic. The focus was on craftsmanship, tailoring, and a subtle exploration of gender roles.

Givenchy Fall 2017 Ready-to-Wear and Women Fall 2017 Collection: A Study in Contrasts and Fluidity

The Givenchy Fall 2017 Ready-to-Wear collection, and specifically the Women's Fall 2017 Collection, provided a clearer picture of Waight Keller's vision for the brand. While maintaining the house's signature elegance and dark romanticism, she introduced elements that challenged traditional gender norms.

The collection featured a mix of masculine and feminine silhouettes, often juxtaposing sharply tailored pieces with flowing, ethereal fabrics. Oversized coats and blazers, traditionally associated with menswear, were paired with delicate dresses and skirts. Trousers were cut with both a relaxed and a more fitted silhouette, offering options for diverse body types and personal styles.

The color palette was predominantly dark and muted, with shades of black, grey, and navy dominating the collection. However, pops of color, such as deep reds and emerald greens, added a touch of vibrancy and visual interest. The use of luxurious fabrics, such as velvet, leather, and silk, further elevated the collection, emphasizing the brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

One of the most notable aspects of the collection was the attention to detail. Waight Keller incorporated subtle androgynous details throughout, such as military-inspired buttons, structured shoulders, and androgynous footwear. These details added a layer of complexity to the designs, blurring the lines between traditional masculine and feminine aesthetics.

The collection was not overtly androgynous in a literal sense; it did not simply present men's clothing on female models or vice versa. Instead, it explored the nuances of gender identity through subtle details, unexpected pairings, and a general sense of fluidity. It was a collection that celebrated individuality and encouraged women to embrace their inner strength and confidence.androgyny givenchy 2017

Givenchy Spring 2017 Menswear Fashion Show: A Precursor to the Androgynous Shift