Matthew Williams has been announced as Givenchy’s new creative director.

The Chicago-born, California-raised designer and founder of luxury label 1017 ALYX 9SM will be overseeing the w0men’s and men’s collections for the Parisian house. “I believe his singular vision of modernity will be a great opportunity for Givenchy to write its new chapter with strength and success,” said Sidney Toledano, chairman and CEO of LVMH Fashion Group in a press release.

After working with Lady Gaga as her creative director, Williams went on to collaborate with Kanye West on art direction. Later, he became part of the trio – along with fellow designers Virgil Abloh and Heron Preston – that founded the men’s streetwear brand Been Trill. In 2015, he created 1017 ALYX 9SM with his wife, Jennifer, and relocated the label from New York City to Italy to be closer to their production. Since then, the label’s been selected as a finalist for the LVMH Prize, and Williams has lent his utilitarian-inspired vision to partnerships with Nike, Moncler Genius and Dior Men.

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Surreal @givenchyofficial

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In an Instagram post announcing the role,  Williams speaks about the news in an audio message. “It’s been my lifelong dream to be in this position and it’s really surreal that it’s finally here. I’ve worked every day for 15 years towards a single goal and it’s super, super surreal. At the same time, it’s bittersweet because we’re living in unprecedented times in the world and I just hope in some way I can bring hope and you know, with my community and colleagues, create positive change for our industry and for the world.”

He succeeds former artistic director Clare Waight Keller, who left her role after three years at the helm of the house. Waight Keller became Givenchy’s first female artistic director in 2017 and notably designed the dress for Meghan Markle’s wedding to Prince Harry.

Williams will present his first collection for Givenchy this October in Paris.

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