Givenchy Goes Into the Mystic with Its New Handbag

Clare Waight Keller is continuing to make her mark on Givenchy. The celebrated designer, who took over the post of artistic director in 2017, is the first woman to garner this mantle, following a string of men that date back to the brand’s eponymous couturier, Hubert de Givenchy. Indeed, it is her feminine touch that the fashion industry is fawning over. The way she brings a charm to tailored separates; the way her ornate gowns imbue ease.

Now, Waight Keller is doing the same with a new handbag, one that closely resembles her first for the brand, the GV3, which debuted a few seasons ago. Called the Mystic, the carryall deviates from the French label’s previous offerings, particularly the renowned Antigona that was designed by her predecessor, Riccardo Tisci. To whit: It is much more ladylike.

It features a V-shaped flap on a structured silhouette with sculptural shoulders. And because Givenchy is a maison founded on couture sensibilities, the details are carefully considered. There are hand-made topstitching, hand-painted edging and a hand-applied bombé cushion on the handle that is intended to ensure comfort.

The Mystic—which comes in seven colors and two sizes—also lends itself to versatility: the strap is adjustable and can be worn as a hand-carry or cross-body. It fits perfectly into the brand’s Pre-Fall 2019 lineup, which features an assortment of oversized knits, tea-length pleated skirts and spiffy two-tone suits.

The bag launches today at Givenchy boutiques and online, and will eventually be available at Saks Fifth Avenue. It is priced from $2,990 to $3,790.