At Paris Mens Fashion Week was a whirlwind of style and innovation as two prominent fashion houses, Givenchy and Rick Owens, unveiled their highly anticipated Spring/Summer 2024 Men’s Ready-To-Wear Collections. Led by Artistic Director Matthew M. Williams, Givenchy presented a captivating showcase that seamlessly merged the past with the future, redefining traditional gentleman dressing for the modern man. Meanwhile, Rick Owens, known for his avant-garde aesthetic, delivered a collection that explored the troubled state of the world in an unexpectedly uplifting manner. Both designers left an indelible mark on the fashion industry with their visionary approaches and boundary-pushing designs.
Givenchy, under the creative direction of Matthew M. Williams, embarked on a journey that delved into the symbolism of school uniforms, offering a fresh take on the concept of dressing smart. Drawing inspiration from how teenagers personalize their conventional attire, Williams reimagined staple pieces, introducing new proportions, embellishments, and fabrications. The collection not only paid homage to the history of menswear but also challenged its relevance in today’s fashion landscape.
Photo Credits: By Acielle / StyleDuMonde
Williams, known for infusing his Californian roots into his designs, continued to blend comfort with high fashion, showcasing his unique perspective within the Givenchy universe. His ability to seamlessly merge traditional and contemporary elements was evident in previous seasons, where he explored the art of tailoring and incorporated tartan patterns into his designs. In the Spring/Summer 2024 collection, Williams elevated casual looks to new heights by adding a touch of couture, further solidifying Givenchy’s embrace of a more relaxed style.
The Givenchy Spring/Summer 2024 Men’s Ready-To-Wear Collection epitomizes Matthew M. Williams’ commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging conventional norms. Each piece invites the wearer to embrace their individuality, encouraging experimentation and playfulness. With intricate detailing, fresh silhouettes, and unexpected combinations, Givenchy showcased its ability to balance classic sophistication with a contemporary edge. By seamlessly blending freedom and nonconformity with luxury and sophistication, the collection resonates with the modern man, empowering him to express himself through fashion.
Givenchy
On the other end of the spectrum, Rick Owens, known for his dark and avant-garde aesthetic, presented a surprisingly uplifting Spring/Summer 2024 collection. Against the backdrop of the Palais de Tokyo’s outdoor gardens, Owens aimed to explore the troubled state of the world in a celebratory manner. The collection exuded an air of happiness and joy, with models walking the runway as musty smoke filled the air, and neon-tinted fireworks shot up into the sky.
Owens stayed true to his signature style, delivering a refined collection that was undeniably his own. Asymmetrical tops made of sheer mesh hugged the body, while leather sleeves draped across barebacks and exposed forearms added a touch of sensuality. The designer’s essential tailored vests featured inflamed shoulder pads and cropped finishes, showcasing his mastery of design. Oversized blazers with lapels that transformed into hoods added drama to the looks, while slouchy shirt dresses cinched with utilitarian belts adorned with pendulous chains exuded a sense of rebelliousness.
Rick Owens
Footwear took center stage in Owens’ Spring/Summer 2024 collection, with the designer offering a fresh take on traditional sandals. Strapped sandals with exposed insteps secured to cushioned borders around the ankles showcased an unconventional twist. Some shoes resembled broken foot casts, revealing selective bursts of skin and adding an edgy element to the overall aesthetic.
Rick Owens‘ collection captured his signature dark aesthetic while exploring themes of happiness and joy in the face of adversity. The showcase left a lasting impression on the audience, solidifying Owens’ status as a visionary in the fashion industry. Paris Mens Fashion Week witnessed the remarkable displays of Givenchy and Rick Owens, two designers who pushed the boundaries of fashion and challenged conventional norms. Matthew M. Williams’ Givenchy collection seamlessly merged the past with the future, redefining gentleman dressing for the modern man. His ability to blend comfort with high fashion and embrace individuality empowered wearers to express themselves freely. Meanwhile, Rick Owens’ collection showcased his mastery of design and his unique ability to find joy amidst adversity, leaving a profound impact on the audience.
Both designers have once again proven their rightful places at the forefront of fashion innovation, captivating the world with their visionary approaches and boundary-pushing designs. Paris Mens Fashion Week served as a testament to the ever-evolving nature of the fashion industry, as it continues to celebrate individuality, challenge norms, and inspire us to embrace our unique style journeys.