Can Matthew Williams – the new dark prince of fashion who’s been bringing his gothic-laced urban aesthetic to Givenchy since taking on its throne as creative director last year – mete out something classic?
With the brand’s 4G handbag that debuts this month, the answer is a breathtaking yes. A rectangular flap shoulder bag in durable full-grain box calfskin, it’s a practical day-to-nighter (read: card slots aplenty) that gets its edge from its details.

The new bag line from Givenchy gets its name from the magnetic clasp in the shape of the brand’s logo made up of four “G”s.
There’s the magnetic clasp in the shape of the brand’s logo made up of four “G”s (hence its name), said to have been meticulously designed right down to the click it makes upon closing – a nod to the padlocks Williams loves, but are missing here.
In colours spanning staples (black, ivory, beige) to trendy (avocado green and baby pink this season), it comes either on a slim yet sturdy leather strap or a chain; the latter’s links are in the form of the house “G”.

The 4G bag boasts all the hallmarks of a Matthew Williams design: slick and sexy with a hint of subversiveness.
Both are removable, allowing the bag to be transformed into a clutch while remaining trademark Williams: slick and sexy with a hint of subversiveness. How’s this for a solidarity package?