In a move that has sent ripples through the fashion world, Sarah Burton has been appointed as the new creative director of Givenchy, the LVMH-owned fashion house announced on Monday. Burton, who will be responsible for the creative direction of all women’s and men’s collections, expressed her excitement about taking the helm of the iconic brand, calling it a “jewel.”
“I am so excited to be able to write the next chapter in the story of this iconic house and to bring to Givenchy my own vision, sensibility and beliefs,” she said in a statement. Burton’s appointment comes after a successful, though emotional, departure from Alexander McQueen, where she served as creative director for 13 years. Her last collection for the brand, the Spring/Summer 2024 line, served as a poignant farewell after a remarkable 26-year journey.
The fashion industry eagerly awaited her next move, and Givenchy has secured a talent renowned for her meticulous tailoring and feminine aesthetic. “Sarah Burton is an exceptional creative talent whose work I have passionately followed for many years,” Sidney Toledano, chairman of the Givenchy board, shared in a statement. “Her unique vision and approach to fashion will be invaluable to this iconic maison, known for its audacity and haute couture. I am convinced that her creative leadership will contribute to the future success and international standing of the maison.”
Burton’s arrival at Givenchy follows the departure of Matthew Williams, who stepped down as creative director after three years in January 2024. Givenchy appointed a new CEO, Alessandro Valenti, in July, further signifying the brand’s commitment to reinvigoration and growth. “The arrival of Sarah Burton as head of our creative design is a very exciting moment for Givenchy,” Valenti said. “Her remarkable career path and creative vision have already won her a vast fan base, and we are certain that under her direction, Givenchy will continue to innovate and captivate an extensive audience across the world stage. I eagerly anticipate the new creative energy Sarah will bring as she works alongside our outstanding teams in our exceptional workshops and we embark on this new chapter in the history of Givenchy.”
Burton’s appointment is particularly noteworthy as it makes her one of only five women to hold a creative director title at an LVMH house, joining a distinguished group including Maria Grazia Chiuri at Dior, Camille Miceli at Pucci, Silvia Fendi (with Kim Jones) at Fendi and Stella McCartney. Her previous role at Alexander McQueen was not only a testament to her talent, but also a continuation of the legacy of the late founder, Lee Alexander McQueen, whom she succeeded after his passing in 2010.
With a strong focus on precise tailoring and feminine aesthetics, Burton’s collections for Alexander McQueen garnered widespread acclaim. Her last show for the brand, inspired by female anatomy and dedicated to Lee McQueen, was praised by Vogue’s Sarah Mower as “a visceral act of female symbolism — a collection fiercely true to herself and to all the values, skills, and beauty she’s upheld for 26 years.”
Burton’s debut collection for Givenchy will be presented for Autumn/Winter 2025 in March at Paris Fashion Week. The fashion world awaits with anticipation to see what creative direction she will bring to the iconic brand and how she will reshape Givenchy’s future within the landscape of luxury fashion.
