Givenchy has mentioned Sara Burton as new creative director, effective immediately, ending the months-long search for a new designer at the French couture house. Burton takes over the role of Matthew Williams who left home in January 2024, after three and a half years of service.
“It is a great honor to be part of the beautiful house of Givenchy, it is a jewel,” Burton said in a statement after the announcement. “I am so excited to write the next chapter in the story of this iconic house and bring my own vision, sensibility and beliefs to Givenchy.”
In McQueen’s footsteps
In addition to her arrival at Givenchy, news of Burton’s appointment also comes as a relief to the fashion world, as her future in the industry has long been speculated. Burton spent her entire career at Alexander McQueen, where she started as the founder’s right-hand man Lee Alexander McQueen before taking on the role of creative director after his death in 2010.
After more than 25 years at the fashion house of LVMH, Burton left in 2023 and presented her last McQueen show (the SS24 collection). To this day, there have only been conversations about what direction she would take her career. Her journey to Givenchy is quite poetic, as she once again follows in the footsteps of her late mentor. (McQueen was creative director at Givenchy from 1996 to 2001).
A new chapter
“Sarah Burton is an exceptional creative talent whose work I have followed with passion for many years,” Chairman of Givenchy Sidney Toledano said about the appointment. “Her unique vision and approach to fashion will be invaluable to this iconic house, known for its boldness and haute couture. I am convinced that her creative leadership will contribute to the future success and international reputation of the house.”
Givenchy offers Burton both a new opportunity and an exciting challenge, making her the second female and eighth designer to lead the house since its founding in 1952. Clare Waight Keller was the first woman to hold this position from 2017 to 2020 (where she was responsible for designing Meghan Markles royal wedding dress).
In her new role, Burton will be responsible for overseeing the design of both women’s and men’s collections. Her debut collection is expected to be unveiled during Paris Fashion Week in March 2025.
Featured image: @givenchy/Instagram
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