Alexander McQueen Autumn/Winter 2011/12
Whether or not the rumours are true that Kate Middleton has chosen Alexander McQueen to design her wedding dress remains to be seen on April 29 but it would be a fantastic choice that has been widely endorsed in the fashion industry.
I have been reading a lot about Alexander McQueen in the news regarding Paris Fashion Week and watched the recent Channel 4 documentary ‘McQueen and I’ about the life and work of the brand’s founder.
I have been struck by what a fascinating and incredibly successful brand story it is.
Firstly Alexander’s rapid ascent on the international fashion stage through his own groundbreaking label and his time as Head Designer at Paris fashion house, Givenchy.
Michelle Obama wears McQueen for a state dinner in honour of Chinese president.
A true visionary, McQueen was known for his lavish, unconventional runway shows. He brought drama and extravagance to the catwalk and shock and suprise to his audience in equal measures. He utilised new technology and innovation to heighten the energy and vibrance of his shows.
After Gucci took a 51% share in his business in 2000 and appointed Alexander as Creative Director, the company launched stores in London, Milan, New York, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Over the subsquent years, menswear, a cruise collection and the McQ diffusion line have followed together with a online store.
What is testament to the brand’s strength is that since McQueen’s death, the brand has continued to grow under the guardianship of Sarah Burton, McQueen’s right hand woman for more than 14 years. As Creative Director, Burton has remained true to the brand ethos embracing McQueens raw emotional energy and exquisite tailoring whilst bringing her own femininity to the collections.
Do you have a luxury fashion brand that you admire? It would be great to hear which fashion brands you admire.
[Photos: Sepphora Beautyzone & Beauty Is Diverse]
