His father was an aristocrat, while the family on his mother's side included several generations of artists. Givenchy came from set designers of both the Paris Opera and the Élysée Palace. His grandfather, Gilles Barden, was an artist who apprenticed with the painter Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot and became director of the prestigious tapestry makers Gobelins and Beauvais.
When Givenchy was a small child, the death of his father from influenza changed the dynamics of his upbringing, giving it a more artistic character. The young Hubert was raised by his mother Béatrice, known as "Sisi," and his maternal grandmother. He lived in a bohemian environment where great value was placed on creativity, and his interests flourished. The female influence in his upbringing was rather decisive for his future success.
Givenchy's grandfather had a passion for materials and fabrics and possessed a collection of clothing from cultures around the world. His collection was a source of inspiration for the young designer, who early on discovered his love for fashion and the art of sewing.
