Known for his unconventional designs and shock tactics, Alexander McQueen earned a reputation for being controversial and unconventional in his approach to artistic expression in the fashion world. Called everything from “l’enfant terrible” to “the hooligan of English fashion”, this British designer remained unapologetic until his own hands took his life this past week.

Born in 1969 in Lewisham-London, McQueen worked as the head designer at Givenchy for five years before founding the Alexander McQueen and McQ labels. Using extravagant brocades, luxurious satins, plaids, and embroidered sheers throughout his collections, his dramatic and eye catching designs were sought out by such celebrities as Rihanna, Bjork and the eccentric Lady Gaga to name a few. Earning the British Designer of the Year award four times over, and the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire, his lavish runway shows and rebellious persona were as show stopping as the designer himself.

Ahead of his times yet often misunderstood, McQueen had this to say about his creations:

“Clothes and jewellery should be startling and individual. When you see a woman in my clothes, you want to know more about them. To me, that is what distinguishes good designers from bad designers.”

The fashion industry has lost one of its greats this month, but one whos spirit will live on in his haute couture collections and extravagant designs. We celebrate the life and legacy of McQueen and the courage of one man to honor his vision and follow his dreams.

Posts by J&O Fabric Store

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