Givenchy has released its Spring 2022 Pre-Collection women’s and men’s ready-to-wear line. This pre-collection is a fusion of two cultures, in an ode to both America and France.

“In my collections, I always speak to lived reality. For Spring 2022, our first pre-collection runway show, I wanted to bring together my American roots and my brand new life in Paris,” said Givenchy’s Creative Director, Matthew M. Williams. “There’s an energy of striking out for a new adventure, of drawing on something familiar yet creating something completely new. “

Since taking on the role of Creative Director in June 2020, Williams brought a new tone and attitude to the House. The streetwear designer sought to bring the French luxury brand into a modern age – and he has done just that.

Williams uses his journey from the U.S. to France as the video’s central point, shot by Jasmine Loignon. Opening the scene is a close-up shot of Lady Liberty. The small lane of a Paris train yard between still commuter trains is transformed into the blank canvas for the show. The models walk these imaginary borders between two lands, until, at the end of the show, New York and Paris are merged into one – the Eiffel Tower standing proudly behind the Statue of Liberty.

A warm color palette mainly consisting of black, brown, olive and navy, playful use of textures and modern innovations on hardware and embellishments inject this collection with a fresh, versatile and gender-inclusive energy.

The setting itself also created space for Williams’ first collaboration in this role – a lively conversation with the Seattle-born, Mexico-based artist, Chito. Within the collaboration, Chito developed new airbrush graphics and brought his individual style and flair to the House. Known for his customization work, including abstract and figurative motifs, the artist’s reimagination of House emblems are married with the designer’s precision tailoring and graphic aesthetic.

Newly developed hardware elements infuse an edgy air into signature Givenchy bags, bringing them new life. Chains, metal beads and bandana embellishments give pieces a unique and personalized appearance. Delicate body harnesses set with crystals glimmer, set over simple black pieces. They complement both the sharp-edged designs, as well as the more fluid and asymmetrical looks.

The Givenchy Spring 2022 pre-collection will be available in-store starting November 5.

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Originally posted from “V Magazine” by Rocio Fabbro