Givenchy: The History of the House

Hubert de Givenchy founded his namesake fashion house in 1952. No sooner did it open than it earned a reputation for breaking with fashion codes of its time. After an incredibly successful 40 years career he would be succeeded by some of fashion’s great talents that contributed to the house of Givenchy ongoing story.
Born in 1927, Hubert James Taffin de Givenchy founded his namesake House in 1952. That same year, he presented a collection that would leave an indelible mark on fashion history: his “separates” – elegant blouses and light skirts blending architectural lines and simplicity – met with enormous success in light of the more constricted looks of the day.

 The “enfant terrible of Haute Couture” was born. Spare lines, slender hips, slim silhouettes and swan-like necks won over actresses from around the world. In 1955, Hubert de Givenchy presented his first shirtdress; the evolution toward lanterns-shapes would become iconic. Audrey Hepburn, as the designer’s muse, accompanied him in inventing a style that would redefine standards of beauty.
 In 1969, the launch of the “Givenchy Gentleman” line would become a reference in men’s fashion. After a career spanning more than 40 years, and having become a part of the LVMH group in 1988, Hubert de Givenchy retired in 1995. He would be succeeded by some of fashion’s great creative talents, among them John Galliano, Alexander McQueen, Julien MacDonald, and Riccardo Tisci. In spring 2017, Clare Waight Keller was named artistic director of Haute Couture and women’s and men’s ready-to-wear.