Matthew M. Williams’ Givenchy show had a myriad of influences. Similar to Kim Jones’ Fendi collection this season, Williams was inspired by the casual, everyday wear of the women who surround him. Hence, the very casual (or, at least, the Givenchy version of casual) looks at the top of the show. Simple but glamorous black coats and oversized blazer and skirt combos, all completed with a high heel and black tights. It was the classic image of Givenchy that we all have in our heads, so French, so sleek.

Soon the colour came. Flashes of blood red and mustard yellow peeking from beneath skirts. You could sense a transition from office wear to night wear. Floral motifs on skirts, a reference to both Mr. Givenchy and Williams’ shared love of gardening, as well as elsewhere, in both embroidery and hand-painted motifs.

This after-hours allure continued as leather made an appearance. Huge black leathers jackets paired with wraparound leather skirts and wraparound leather jackets. The dichotomy between the floral motifs and the leather emphasising Williams’ brilliant versatility. The show finished with a parade of gowns. Simple Givenchy excellence. Lace and pearls and plunges and whole leg splits. Then they too found themselves reimagined in leather, closing a lesson in complimenting contrasts.