Sarah Burton, renowned for designing the Princess of Wales wedding dress, has been appointed the new creative director at the prestigious French fashion house, Givenchy. Burton will take the position of creative director of the women’s as well as men collections at Givenchy; she was working as creative director of Alexander McQueen. The fashion world is really abuzz with excitement, signaling a new chapter for both Burton and Givenchy.
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A New Chapter for Givenchy
Burton has spent 26 years at Alexander McQueen, working alongside their founder, the late Lee Alexander McQueen, before taking over as creative director after his death in 2010. Her work at McQueen was very highly regarded for finding a balance between avant-garde fashion and commercial appeal; she has led this brand to major growth in the global fashion market.
For Givenchy, Burton says, “It is a great honor to be joining the beautiful house of Givenchy. I am really excited to write the next chapter of this iconic house and bring my own vision to its future.”
Continuing a Legacy
Burton appointment is a fitting one, as Alexander McQueen himself once held the same role at Givenchy from 1996 to 2001. Now, she follows in his footsteps, hoping to stabilize the brand after a period of frequent creative director changes. She will be the fourth designer to take the helm at Givenchy in the last decade and the second woman to lead the brand, following Clare Waight Keller, who served as Givenchy’s creative director from 2017 to 2020.
Givenchy’s chairman, Sidney Toledano, described Burton as an “exceptional creative talent” and emphasized the importance of her unique vision in shaping the future of the brand. He believes Burton’s appointment will bring fresh energy to the house, which has seen its momentum slow compared to other LVMH brands like Celine and Loewe.
A Storied Career
Burton’s fashion career began when she joined Alexander McQueen in the late 1990s, starting as a design assistant and rising through the ranks. During her time with McQueen, she could develop amazing dramatic tailoring, confined with extremely intricate design. Most recently, in 2011 she designed Kate Middleton’s wedding dress, making her a household name across the world.
Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards in 2011 and an OBE in 2012 for her services to the fashion industry. Burton’s influence in fashion has been great, with her designs admired for a mix of femininity with strength and an artistic touch.
A Bright Future for Givenchy
Burton’s arrival at Givenchy, alongside new CEO Alessandro Valenti, is expected to usher in a new era for the brand. Valenti expressed his excitement, saying, “Sarah Burton’s remarkable career and creative vision have already won her a vast fan base. Under her direction, Givenchy will continue to innovate and captivate audiences on the global stage.”
As she prepares for her first collection for Givenchy, set to debut in March 2025 during Paris Fashion Week, the fashion world eagerly awaits Burton’s vision for the brand. Givenchy, known for its audacious designs and haute couture, seems poised for a creative resurgence under Burton’s leadership.
Conclusion
Sarah Burton’s appointment as the creative director of Givenchy marks an exciting moment for both the designer and the fashion house. With her vast experience and fresh perspective, Burton is set to breathe new life into Givenchy, continuing its legacy while carving out her own unique vision for the future of the brand
