Alexander McQueen, Icon, Genius, and Fashion Visionary

Alexander McQueen, Icon, Genius, and Fashion Visionary

His breathtaking visions adorned the fashion world

By, Susie Jackson

New York Fashion Week commences as the world has lost one of the most talented British fashion designers, Alexander McQueen.

The designer born Lee Alexander McQueen was initially deemed the “enfant terrible” of the fashion world. He struck everyone by surprise with his controversial catwalks and innovative designs. Within 10 years he became one of the most notable and highly respected designers of the era.

McQueen’s intense fascination with fashion started from a young age. He started sketching and sewing dress for his sisters. He left of school at age 16 to pursue a career in fashion. He apprenticed for Saville Row’s Anderson & Shepherd and Gieves and Hawkes, where he learned traditional tailoring. He then learned pattern making from theater’s famous Angels & Bermans costumiers. He was able to sharpen his technical skills and it was these early influences that created the basis for his designs that were to come. McQueen traveled the world and went to Japan and Italy where he worked for Koji Tatsuno and Romeo Gigli. But in 1994 he returned to London where he completed a master’s degree in fashion at Central Saint Martins College. He showed his degree collection which was bought by Isabella Blow, the style guru and fashion director of Tatler.

In October of 1996 he was controversially appointed to chief designer of Givenchy after succeeding John Galliano. And in December of 2000 the Gucci Group acquired his label, where he also became the creative director. He extended his brand to fragrances and eyewear in 2003. And in 2006 he created McQ, an affordable denim based ready-to-wear line.

(McQueen and Samsonite Collection inspired by the human anatomy with a futuristic look)

In addition to his mainline collection, McQueen had formed various partnerships. In 2005 he partnered with Puma for a unique and unexpected footwear collection. And in February 2006 he partnered with Samsonite for cutting edge luxury travel accessories.

(Spring/Summer 2008 McQueen's signature billowy dresses)

His hugely successful career brought him numerous awards. He won British designer of the year four times between 1996 and 2003. In 2003 Queen Elizabeth II honored him as the commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. And in 2004 the British Fashion Council named him British Menswear designer of the year for his first menswear collection.

(Spring/Summer 2010 Collection of controversial Armadillo Shoes inspired by Charles Darwin's origins of species)

Alexander McQueen is known for his meticulously constructed garments, combining elements of British tailoring, French couture, and Italian manufacturing. He merged emotional power, raw energy, and contemporary nature to create his inspiration fashion brand. He created signature looks of billowing dresses, angular suiting, and dark romantic gowns. His clothing was not only innovative he was also known for his astounding fashion shows of drama, mixed design, and technology.

(McQueen's Spring/Summer 2010 Collection of a mix of structured, tailored, futuristic and modern)

Never did he waver from his attention to form, function, and elegance. For McQueen will be greatly missed but his passion, spirit, and strong point of view will continue through his garments.