Givenchy Spring Summer 2016

You may have already seen the requisite photographs of a very pregnant Kim Kardashian in lacey black Givenchy number that revealed hints of her stomach from yesterday’s Givenchy show. The Kim and Kanye fashion press tour, is typically splashed across every news outlet. However, the important message from this show, for those that weren’t there, was artist and artistic director Marina Abramovic‘s message to Riccardo Tisci, which was left on every chair. The note read: “Dear Riccardo, When you asked me to work with you on this show, I felt honored but I also felt a great responsibility. The 11th of September is the most sad in recent American history. As the artistic director, I want to create something respectful and humble. The location of the show, Pier 26, is significant because of its position and clear view of the freedom tower. Constructing the set from recycled materials and debris means that it could be constructed and deconstructed without any waste. Our choice of music, from six different cultures and religions, has the power to unite people without discrimination. This event that we are creating is about forgiveness, inclusivity, new life, hope, and above all, love. Love, Marina”

Despite his affinity for edge, this collection had a notable softness to it. There was a touch of a boudoir element, but it came in soft, silky camisoles with delicate lace detail, slinky robes, and draping. Every piece in the show came in black, white, or ivory. The model’s makeup was clean and almost bare save for the facial jewelry, which Tisci revisited this season. This time that came in silver or in some cases facial adornments were made of white tulle or lace—a much lighter take on the facial jewels for his Gothic Victorian collection. Then there were the absolutely divine couture dresses like an ivory gown made of bits of cut leather made to look like alligator skin or the degrade feather pieces. Also spectacular was an assym off-white leather coat with giant gold grommets and spikes or a dramatic ivory fringe gown, plus a cut-out draped shoulder glam gown with studs topped off with full-fledged facial jewelry was pure splendor. It was a show every bit as stunning and  cool as one has come to expect from Tisci after 10 years at the house.