Another icon is gone. Fashion visionary, Vale Hubert de Givenchy noted for dressing some of the world’s most famous women; passed away at age 91. Hubert’s designs were widely celebrated for not only their sophistication, but divine elegance.
Hubert de Givenchy -Founder of Givenchy Dies at 91, Life & Legacy
The French luxury couture designer was born in 1927. In future years, the couturier would come to redefine the modern woman’s form of attire. Givenchy often referred to himself as “the eternal apprentice.” However, his masterful creations since the start of his fashion house in 1952; clearly demonstrated his true skill, talents and pure genius.
Furthermore, Givenchy truly understood the female form. His luxe and dazzling frocks always fit a woman’s body in the most desirable as well as alluring way. His motto? Hubert once said, “The dress must follow the body of a woman, not the body following the shape of the dress.”
This understanding led to Givenchy being highly sought after by the Hollywood elite. As a result, Hubert dressed some of the most influential women of the 20th century. Ladies of Givenchy included Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Jackie Kennedy and Grace Kelly. Men too experienced the Givenchy treatment, such as the legendary David Bowie.
Hepburn who wore Givenchy couture in some of her biggest roles is quoted as stating, “His clothes are the only clothes in which I am completely myself. He is far more than a couturier, he is a creator of personality… I’m as dependent on Givenchy as some Americans are on their psychiatrist.” Her sentiments sum up what numerous starlets, models and women around the world have felt in Hubert’s pieces.
Hubert de Givenchy -Founder of Givenchy, Life & Legacy
To this day, women around the world keep a LBD in their wardrobes. The LBD, or Little Black Dress is a classic, iconic garment that never goes out of style. Seasons come and go. Trends see the light of day then quickly vanish, but the little black dress continues to command the spotlight.
Who of us can forget actress, Audrey Hepburn’s black dress from Breakfast at Tiffany’s? The actress also can be seen in Givenchy designs in her films Sabrina and Funny Face. Moreover, in 1954 Audrey put down Hubert in her contracts as the designer who would design all of her film costumes. Ultimately, the move that sealed designer and muse as lifelong friends and workmates.
Even though Hubert de Givenchy made the LBD (little black dress) look so easy to pull off, he made it starkly clear it is not. In regards to the look Givenchy states, “The little black dress is the thing to realize, because you have to keep it simple.” Listen to him fashion lovers, less can be oh so more.
Besides his beautiful gowns Hubert also changed how the fashion world viewed separates. A blouse, jacket, skirt, or trouser could produce a plethora of stylish combinations. Limitless outfit choices instead of one. His concept of mixing and matching separates truly revolutionized the industry.
Hubert de Givenchy -Founder of Givenchy Dies at 91
The Givenchy fashion house reached out to fans and admirers via social media in order to release a statement pertaining to Hubert de Givenchy. The label says,
“The House of Givenchy is sad to report the passing of its founder Hubert de Givenchy. A major personality of the world of French Haute Couture and a gentleman who symbolized Parisian chic and elegance for more than half a century. His enduring influence and his approach to style reverberates to this day. He will be greatly missed.”
Several celebrities also shared their thoughts as well as condolences online. Including supermodels Iman and Naomi Campbell. They said,
“Au revoir Monsieur Givenchy!”
-IMAN
“May you R.I.P. Hubert de Givenchy so elegant and chic. It was a honor to have met you and to work with you.”
-Naomi Campbell
Hubert de Givenchy – Letter From Our Editor
Hello Readers,
Like you, I am also deeply saddened by this unfortunate news regarding the great Hubert de Givenchy. Growing up, his designs were one of the first to make me want to shed my Tomboy ways and hop into a black dress!
I also remember fondly talking about the glamorous old Hollywood with my grandmother. Not just the bright lights, triple threat talent or fascinating productions; but the fashion! The undeniable breath-taking couture that was chic, high-end, mesmerizing yet sexy all in one.
It was my grandmother as well as my mother that exposed me to a few classic films that left me wishing I was old enough to have a credit card. Since if I had had one, a lot of the available funds would of went to Givenchy couture. Therefore, maybe it was a good idea that could not qualify (LOL).
Being a fan of the fashion house, I was moved to write this feature. Not just to tell the impact that Givenchy had on me, but the impact He and his label left on the world. Truly an industry leader that will be missed. Below you will find a complilation of a few of my favorite Givenchy moments of all time. Thank you for taking time out to read this post and I hope you enjoy the photos (Note: Modern looks by John Galliano and Alexander McQueen).
Sincerely,
Arianne XOXO
Hubert de Givenchy – Final Words to Live By
“Luxury is in each detail.”
“All a woman needs to be chic is a raincoat, two suits, a pair of trousers and a cashmere sweater.”
“Hair style is the final tip-off whether or not a woman really knows herself.”
“To have style is to have a feeling for what is currently fashionable, and still to simultaneously remain true to oneself.”
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