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Did you know Audrey Hepburn's iconic black dress in the film, Breakfast at Tiffany's, was designed by Givenchy? Known for his classic silhouettes and elegant designs, Hubert has always been a trailblazer in the fashion industry. Ever the beacon of sophistication and aristocratic luxury, Givenchy is also remembered for his close friendship to Hepburn, often using her as his fashion muse.
Having passed away last Saturday in his Paris chateau, join us in our fifth instalment of #FashionFlashbacks. Here,we take a trip down memory lane -- recounting the designer's iconic achievements and contributions in the world of Fashion and Design.
Above Hubert de Givenchy's Paris abode, Château du Jonchet, France - reminiscent of his childhood home. | photo from: thisisglamorous.com
Hubert de Givenchy's Paris abode, Château du Jonchet, France - reminiscent of his childhood home. | photo from: thisisglamorous.com
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1927
Hubert James Taffin de Givenchy is born in Beauvais, France to an aristocratic family. [1]
Above Photo: Courtesy of Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Photo: Courtesy of Hulton Archive/Getty Images
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1946
Leaving his childhood home at the age of 17, Hubert pursued an education at the École des Beaux-Arts where he began his career as an apprentice. Here, he spent creating designs for Robert Piguet and Lucien Lelong, working with the then unknown Christian Dior and Pierre Balmain. [2] [3]
Above Hubert with Bettina | Photo by NR Farbman for Time Magazine
Hubert with Bettina | Photo by NR Farbman for Time Magazine
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1952
Givenchy opens his first design house (la Maison Givenchy) in Plaine Monceau, Paris. Shortly after, he releases his first collection named after the famous model, Bettina Graziani. Making him the first designer to release a luxury prêt-à-porter line.
Above Behind the scenes of "Sabrina" | Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
Behind the scenes of "Sabrina" | Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
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1953
Givenchy meets the budding actress, Audrey Hepburn, in the set of the comedy, Sabrina. Here she stars opposite Humphrey Bogart and William Holden.
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1957
Givenchy launches L'interdit -- a signature perfume with Audrey Hepburn fronting the campaign, signalling a blossoming friendship between the two.
Above The Balloon Coat
The Balloon Coat
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1958
The House of Givenchy lancuhes designs for the now-iconic "Balloon Coat" and "Baby Doll" dress.
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1961
Breakfast at Tiffany's is released, featuring the iconic black dress Audrey Hepburn sports in the blockbuster movie where she plays the struggling protagonist, Holly Golightly.
Above Backstage at Défilé Givenchy Homme 2016-2017 | Photo by Vogue
Backstage at Défilé Givenchy Homme 2016-2017 | Photo by Vogue
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1969
Givenchy launches a Men's line.
Above 1975 Lincoln Continental Mark IV (Givenchy Series) | Photo from wikicommons
1975 Lincoln Continental Mark IV (Givenchy Series) | Photo from wikicommons
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1976
Givenchy partners with Ford Motor Company to release a luxury car, named the Continental Mark IV Coupe, Hubert proves that his design prowess extends beyond the runway.
Above Installation of Givenchy on Avenue Georges V, Paris, in the 1950s © Givenchy | Photofrom LMVH.com
Installation of Givenchy on Avenue Georges V, Paris, in the 1950s © Givenchy | Photofrom LMVH.com
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1981
The House of Givenchy is divided into two with its perfume leg taken up by Veuve Clicquot and the fashion house absorbed by LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy ). [2]
Above Ricardo Tisci for Givenchy Couture Autumn/Winter 2010
Ricardo Tisci for Givenchy Couture Autumn/Winter 2010
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1995
Hubert resigns from the design house. Taking after him were John Galliano briefly, Alexander Mcqueen for five years, Julien Mcdonald for three years, and Ricardo Tisci from 2005 till 2017.
Above Hubert de Givenchy Exhibit - Virtual Tour
Hubert de Givenchy Exhibit - Virtual Tour
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2014
A retrospective exhibition is held at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid Spain, featuring 95 pieces designed by Hubert. See the exhibit in this virtual tour.
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2018
Hubert de Givenchy passes away in his Paris chateau at the age of 91.
References:
[1] Connie Roff, Who's Who: Hubert de Givenchy, Vogue, 11 November 2011.
[2] “Hubert De Givenchy: 'It Was Always My Dream to Be a Dress Designer'.” The Independent, Independent Digital News and Media, 23 Oct. 2011, www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/features/hubert-de-givenchy-it-was-always-my-dream-to-be-a-dress-designer-1993047.html.
[3] Rosaline. “At Home With: Hubert De Givenchy, Château Du Jonchet, France.” This Is Glamorous, 12 Mar. 2018, www.thisisglamorous.com/2016/02/at-home-with-hubert-de-givenchy-chateau-du-jonchet-france/.
A creative storyteller with a background in literature and culture, Dowee has been with Tatler since 2016 and now leads the brand’s digital voice—pursuing stories that highlight inspiring people, moments, and experiences. She holds a Master’s degree in Creative Writing from De La Salle University and is pursuing her PhD in Philippine Literature and Society at the University of the Philippines. She is also a member of the writers group, Taftique, which hones young writers in the field of creative literature.
For story leads, collaborations, or inquiries, reach out via dowee@tatlerphilippines.com or info@tatlerphilippines.com.
