In the beginning there was Givenchy. At least, that was the message at Paris Fashion Week last night.
Presenting his spring/summer offering for next year, Givenchy designer Ricardo Tisci relied on divine intervention to inspire a front-row that included the stunning Natalia Vodianova.
Hammering home the religious theme - a known favourite of Tisci's- a pipe organ sat centre stage. Clearly imagining the habits of the clergy as his starting point, Tisci unveiled stark black tabard dresses which came detailed with heavyweight clerical collars in gold and silver.
Ruffles which bore a striking resemblance to those usually sported by choir boys also played a leading role. Some featured on the collars of blouses cut from duchess satin while others came on jackets.
The collection showed a softer and perhaps, more feminine side to Tisci whose greatest known asset is his ability to cut a pin sharp, rock-chick-ready tuxedo.
While monochrome remained a key fixture for the designer, this time he incorporated airy hues of sky blue and ivory into the mix. Of course, his skill as a tailor was apparent throughout. In fact, a series of sleeveless jackets - skillfully cut and perfectly fitted - were among the most heavenly pieces in the collection.
