We’ve heard the story so many times before. A fashion label in need of a reawakening and a non-conforming designer who seeks to reawaken it. And like how Karl Lagerfeld roused Chanel in the 1980s, John Galliano breathed new life into Dior in the 1990s, and Daniel Lee reinvented Bottega Veneta in the late 2010s, the 2020s have seen another bright fashion mind shake up a beloved heritage fashion house. Of course, we’re talking about the appointment of Matthew M. Williams as the Creative Director of Givenchy.

Famed for the rapid rise of his cult-favorite label Alyx, Williams had the fashion world talking when he took the helm at Givenchy in June 2020. He quickly established what’s been dubbed the ‘New Givenchy’ and has successfully rejuvenated the brand’s handbag game.

With a cohort of new bag designs making waves, it’s time we take a look at Williams’ hottest and most polarizing styles for Givenchy.

Antigona Stretch

Understanding the status Givenchy’s Antigona bag possesses, Williams chose to update the brand’s fan-favorite ‘It’ bag with the launch of the Antigona Stretch. An elongated version of the classic, the Antigona Stretch’s structured oblong silhouette offers maximum functionality while the logo-engraved lock detail at the center gives the beloved style a cool update.

Kenny

Embracing a new unstructured silhouette, Williams introduced the Kenny bag for Spring/Summer 2022. Crafted to a slouchy shape forming a gathered pouch, the design is proving to be the ultimate accessory for French cool girls. It showcases a chunky cube chain formed of four G motifs and a G-embossed padlock fastener which have both become signatures of Williams’ ‘New Givenchy’ era.

G-Hobo

Williams’ G-Hobo bag, released as part of the designer’s Fall/Winter 2022 offering, plays on the retro hobo shape, a staple of the early 2000s. Appearing in a more angular silhouette than its Y2K-era predecessors, the G-Hobo offers a sleek and refined take on a fan-favorite style. Available in a myriad of supple leather options all complete with Williams’ classic G-engraved padlock, it’s no surprise the design has sent the style set swooning.

Cut Out

The Cut Out bag is one standout design that’s helped usher in Williams’ ‘New Givenchy.’ Debuting for Spring/Summer 2021, the Cut Out signaled to the fashion crowd that the house was entering a new era. The unique design makes a case for structured styles and sharp lines by flaunting a deep V-shaped cut-out at the center and a bold G-motif chain. While it’s undoubtedly proved polarizing, the Cut Out bag’s statement appeal is undeniable, and the design has become intrinsically linked with Williams’ innovative vision for Givenchy.

4G

Despite Williams’ commitment to shaking up Givenchy classics and experimenting with new silhouettes, the designer hasn’t shied away from putting his stamp on tried and tested styles. Take the 4G bag. Sporting a functional flap opening secured with a magnetic logo-engraved clasp, this boxy rectangular design feels like an age-old Givenchy classic despite making its debut in the house’s Pre-Fall 2021 collection. Choose from leather or chain strap options and wear them tucked under the shoulder or crossbody for a more casual look.