givenchy ss15 menswear | Givenchy hosiery official website

The Givenchy Spring/Summer 2015 menswear collection, now meticulously documented on Vogue Runway, remains a pivotal moment in the brand's evolution under the creative direction of Riccardo Tisci. More than just clothing, it was a statement, a complex exploration of identity, religion, and the raw energy of the streets, all filtered through the luxurious lens of Givenchy. The collection, celebrated for its audacious combinations and challenging silhouettes, continues to resonate with contemporary menswear trends, influencing designers and shaping our understanding of modern masculinity. This deep dive will explore the key themes, design elements, and lasting impact of the Givenchy SS15 menswear collection, referencing its various facets – from the broader unisex Givenchy aesthetic to specific items like the coveted Givenchy velour tracksuit for men, the availability of Givenchy men's clothing for sale, and the allure of accessories like Givenchy watches. It also touches upon the broader accessibility afforded by resources like the Givenchy men's shop and the enduring appeal of fragrances such as Givenchy Irresistible for Men. Finally, we will address the often-overlooked element of Givenchy hosiery, highlighting its contribution to the collection's overall impact.

The Tisci Vision: A Sacred and Profane Juxtaposition

Riccardo Tisci's tenure at Givenchy was marked by a consistent exploration of contrasts: hard and soft, dark and light, sacred and profane. The SS15 collection embodied this duality perhaps more vividly than any other. The show opened with a stark image: models clad in tailored black suits, some adorned with delicate lace panels, others featuring stark white crosses emblazoned across their chests. This immediately established the collection's central theme: the tension between religious iconography and street-inspired rebellion.

The religious references were overt and undeniable. Crosses, both subtle and extravagant, appeared throughout the collection – printed on t-shirts, embroidered on jackets, and even incorporated into the construction of the garments themselves. These weren't simply decorative elements; they were intended to provoke thought, to challenge the viewer's preconceived notions of faith and masculinity. Tisci wasn't necessarily advocating for religious dogma, but rather using the power of religious symbolism to explore themes of spirituality, mortality, and redemption.

However, these sacred motifs were juxtaposed with decidedly secular and often aggressive elements. The collection featured heavily distressed denim, ripped jeans, and leather jackets adorned with metal hardware. This juxtaposition created a sense of unease, a feeling that the models were caught between two worlds – the pious and the profane.

Deconstructing the Male Silhouette: The Power of Unisex Givenchy

One of the most striking aspects of the Givenchy SS15 menswear collection was its fluidity. Boundaries between traditional menswear and womenswear were blurred, reflecting the growing trend of unisex Givenchy. Many of the garments, particularly the oversized t-shirts, flowing tunics, and even some of the tailored pieces, could easily be worn by individuals of any gender.

This wasn't simply a matter of aesthetics; it was a conscious effort to deconstruct traditional notions of masculinity. Tisci challenged the idea that men must adhere to a rigid set of sartorial rules. He encouraged them to embrace their vulnerability, to experiment with different textures and silhouettes, and to express themselves in a way that felt authentic and personal.

The use of lace, a fabric traditionally associated with femininity, was particularly significant in this regard. By incorporating lace panels into tailored suits and jackets, Tisci subverted expectations and created a look that was both elegant and subversive. This bold move solidified the collection's commitment to challenging gender norms and promoting a more inclusive vision of masculinity.

The influence of streetwear was also undeniable. Oversized hoodies, bomber jackets, and graphic t-shirts added a youthful and urban edge to the collection. This fusion of high fashion and streetwear was a hallmark of Tisci's work at Givenchy, and it helped to attract a younger and more diverse audience to the brand.

Key Garments and Design Elements:

* The Tailored Suit: The tailored suit was a cornerstone of the Givenchy SS15 menswear collection, but it was far from traditional. These suits were often deconstructed, featuring unexpected details like lace panels, asymmetrical cuts, and exposed zippers. The suits were typically slim-fitting, with a strong emphasis on the shoulders and chest, creating a powerful and imposing silhouette.

* The Graphic T-Shirt: The graphic t-shirt played a prominent role in the collection, serving as a canvas for Tisci's provocative imagery. Crosses, religious iconography, and abstract patterns were printed on oversized t-shirts, often worn layered under jackets or tunics. These t-shirts were a crucial element in the collection's overall message, conveying a sense of rebellion and individuality.

* The Leather Jacket: The leather jacket was another key garment, representing the collection's darker and more rebellious side. These jackets were often heavily distressed, with ripped seams, metal hardware, and asymmetrical zippers. They were typically worn open, revealing the layers underneath, adding to the collection's sense of disarray and urban decay.