Feb
12
Alexander McQueen
Today’s style trial blog is dedicated to the renowned British fashion designer Alexander McQueen, who died this week.
McQueen wore born in London’s East End in 1969, the son of a taxi driver and teacher and the youngest of six children. At sixteen he left school to start an apprenticeship at the Savile Row tailors, and eventually made suits for Prince Charles.
McQueen’s career took off with the creation of low-slung, ‘bumster’, jeans in 1996. The controversial garment put the designer on the map and set him on course for a career that was never predictable or bland.
He was appointed head designer at French fashion house Givenchy where he worked for five years, eventually setting up his own Alexander McQueen label. The brand flourished, and his designs were worn by a host of celebrities, including Cate Blanchett, Katie Holmes, Sarah Jessica Parker to Sienna Miller.
Take a look at our gallery of celebrities wearing Alexander McQueen designs here.
It is fair to say that McQueen has made a considerable imprint on the world of fashion. The designer’s trademark pattern which has been copied all over the highstreet is the skull motif. McQueen’s skull-print scarf became a ubiquitous celebrity accessory which was sported by the likes of Naomi Campbell and Johnny Depp. He was also known for his out-of-the-ordinary catwalk shows which combined theatricality and extravagance to elevate them beyond the customary fashion fare.
McQueen enjoyed a career marked by significant successes. He was named British Designer of the Year four times and international designer of the year by the Council of Fashion Directors of America in 2003. In 2003 McQueen was awarded a CBE.
His singular vision and talent will be greatly missed.
Sarah McIntyre