Sarah Burton Appointed Creative Director of Givenchy, Signaling a New Era for the French Fashion House

A Storied Career at Alexander McQueen

Burton's journey in fashion began with an internship at Alexander McQueen in 1996, while she was still a student at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. Her dedication and vision led to her appointment as Head of Design in 2000. Following the untimely passing of Lee Alexander McQueen in 2010, Burton assumed the role of Creative Director. Under her leadership, the brand experienced substantial growth, with sales reaching approximately €830 million by 2022. ​

One of Burton's most acclaimed achievements during her tenure at McQueen was designing the wedding dress for Catherine Middleton in 2011, a creation that garnered international acclaim and solidified her status as a leading figure in fashion design. ​

Transition to Givenchy

Burton's appointment at Givenchy comes after the departure of Matthew Williams earlier this year. She becomes the second woman to lead the creative direction at Givenchy, following Clare Waight Keller's tenure from 2017 to 2020. This transition also signifies a notable movement within the luxury fashion industry, as Burton shifts from Kering-owned Alexander McQueen to LVMH-owned Givenchy, highlighting the competitive dynamics between these conglomerates. ​

Reflecting on her new role, Burton remarked, "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."

Anticipation for the Debut Collection

The fashion world eagerly awaits Burton's inaugural collection for Givenchy, scheduled to be unveiled at Paris Fashion Week in March 2025. Her appointment is expected to infuse Givenchy with a renewed sense of creativity, blending the brand's rich heritage with her unique design sensibilities. Industry observers anticipate that Burton's vision will resonate with Givenchy's legacy of elegance and innovation, potentially attracting a broader audience and revitalizing the brand's presence in the competitive luxury market.​

As the fashion community looks forward to this new era, Burton's leadership at Givenchy is poised to make a lasting impact, reinforcing the brand's status as a beacon of haute couture and contemporary design.