Alexander McQueen was founded in 1992 by Lee Alexander McQueen. McQueen, hugely influential and labelled a genius, was appointed a CBE and won British Designer of the Year four times while head designer for the brand. Alexander McQueen joined the Kering Group in 2001, and Sarah Burton was appointed creative director in 2010.
Shocking and controversial designs were at the forefront of collections in the brand’s early days, being given the label ‘the hooligan of British fashion’. Runway shows were eccentric and irregular, exemplified by their Human Chess Game fashion show in 2005. Sarah Burton has not forgotten the gothic roots of the fashion House, embracing its heritage in unconvention. The iconic dark and romantic style, mixed with sharp tailoring and powerful silhouettes, which the brand was always known for, continue in Burton’s designs today. The signature style of dramatic creativity is still strong, while Sarah Burton simultaneously brings her own flair of femininity to the brand. As always with Alexander McQueen, we see boundaries in design and fashion being challenged.
“Integral to the Alexander McQueen culture is the juxtaposition between the feminine and the masculine, fragility and strength, romance and rebellion, man and machine”.
Inspiration for the brand’s collections often comes from nature and our environment. This natural inspiration combined with strong juxtapositions create breathtakingly unique collections. Throughout many pieces, the iconic skull motif provides an emblem of the brand, its story and its craftsmanship. Alexander McQueen is recognised as a representation of British Couture.
Alexander McQueen have numerous stores throughout the world: London, Hong Kong, Japan, Thailand, Milan, LA, Dubai and many more. They can be found online through their own website, and through Selfridges, Farfetch, Harrods and Liberty London.