Riccardo Tisci created a sleek, graphic pre-fall lineup with a hint of edgy undercurrent. But for a few racy Tyrolean tops and taut aviator jackets, he cut silhouettes generously for easy layering: long, tubular coats spliced with reversible leather belts; roomy midi-length skirts; filmy bow blouses with extra-long scarves, and pantsuits with flouncy, peplum jackets and full-leg trousers.
Leather was used generously, giving an edge to dressmaker coats with intricate pleats, while prints were distinctive. Blurred cherry blossoms and baby’s breath, which also figured in his spring men’s collection, dressed up strict black trenchcoats, blouses and draped jersey gowns. The designer’s beloved crosses also turned up, used as rubbery white motifs resembling polka dots on black chiffon polo dresses and in red on romantic floral dresses and blouses. While this pre-fall lineup didn’t catapult the Givenchy look in any dramatic new direction, it did prove the soundness of an old adage: If it ain’t broke…