Givenchy Boutique (Paris, France)

I actually just hesitated there, as I typed the word 'boutique' in the post title. You see, calling this a boutique seems a bit of an understatement. The word 'gallery' would probably be better suited to describe this store or perhaps 'Museum of Modern Givenchy' (aka MOMG). I believe Riccardo Tisci did have an art museum in mind, when he had this store designed a little over a year ago. And anyone, who really wants to dive into the world of all that is Givenchy, must visit the 28 Faubourg St. Honoré flagship (yes, that's an order).

(left image: Givenchy)

Unlike other stores, you won't find a separate shop window display - instead, the suspended mannequins towards the front of the store are clearly visible from the street, so that shop window and the actual store mold into one. The boutique itself reflects the modernity that Tisci has also injected into the clothes he designs. The building's facade might seem traditional, reminiscent of the Givenchy that Audrey Hepburn was so fond of, but expect to find a lot of stark white, once you enter.

(top image: Givenchy)

The one thing I found truly innovative about this store, were the 5 different room-sized 'boxes' (made of burnt oak and encased in resin) that were laid out within this vast space. This design is based on the original Givenchy boxes, used to deliver the garments. Inside each room, you'll find the ready-to-wear clothes from the current season, hanging neatly from steel bars. The interior of each area features elements from the brand's history, whether it's white plaster moulding (box 1), 18th century baroque (box 2), layers of glass (box 3) or my personal favorite: dark wood paneling with a parquet floor featuring the four Gs of Givenchy (box 4).

My preferred Givenchy look is anything in the dark Goth category, so I was happily browsing the black chiffon and leather. It's somehow refreshing to see a lack of pastels for spring/summer, even if I'm a little sick of dark colors by now, but Tisci makes it work. Anyone familiar with the runway looks, knows the 'Western Bondage' theme that's going on this season, but surprisingly I didn't see the infamous half-jeans/half-leather chaps. Hmmm... maybe they're on order. I did spot a few bondage tops and dresses, as well as a range of pastel outfits for a more classical look.

For those of you more interested in accessories, these can't be found in any of the boxes, but are laid out on both sides of the store on (and in) white timber chests. Glass vitrines featuring bags or jewelry complete the look. Shoes are presented on illuminated white shelves towards the back. And as Tisci is now designing the men's line as well, it's worth taking a look at the large space (and box no 5) on the left side of the store, dedicated to men's ready-to-wear. I actually preferred the men's accessories, which included beautifully embossed leather bags and wallets.

And one last note: while the store may seem intimidating - the staff is not. Don't be afraid to go in, take a look and yes... even touch or try on the items. Everyone there was incredibly friendly and it would be a shame to miss one of the most impressive flagships I've seen to date.

Address: 28 rue du Faubourg St. Honoré, 75008 Paris
Opening Hrs: Mon-Sat: 10:00-19:00
Givenchy Homepage