Alexander McQueen was a revolutionary designer known for his bold and innovative contributions to the fashion industry.
Born in London on March 17, 1969, he quickly rose to prominence, eventually earning four British Designer of the Year Awards and the CFDA’s International Designer of the Year Award in 2003.
After completing a tailoring course at Newham College, McQueen went on to study at Central St Martins, where he graduated in 1992. His career took off when he was appointed chief designer at Givenchy in 1996, where he made a lasting impact despite toning down his designs. One notable moment was featuring double amputee Aimee Mullins in his autumn/winter 1998 show, showcasing intricately carved prosthetic legs.
In 2001, McQueen left Givenchy to set up his own label and sold a 51% stake to Gucci the same year. His rebellious nature earned him the title of “the hooligan of English fashion.” Tragically, McQueen passed away on February 11, 2010, in London, just days after his mother’s death. His death was ruled as due to asphyxiation and hanging.
McQueen’s partner, George Forsyth, publicly separated from him a year after their marriage ceremony in 2000. Sadly, Forsyth passed away a few months after McQueen, overdosing on painkillers. McQueen left behind a fortune of over £16 million, with generous bequests to family members, charities, and household staff.
Despite his passing, McQueen’s legacy lives on through his brand, with Sarah Burton serving as creative director until 2023, when it was taken over by Seán McGirr. McQueen’s iconic designs continue to inspire the fashion world, with creations like the tartan dress worn by Sarah Jessica Parker and the razor clam shell-encrusted dress capturing the imagination of many.
McQueen’s funeral at St Paul’s Cathedral brought together close friends and family, including celebrities like Daphne Guinness, Kate Moss, Stella McCartney, and Naomi Campbell. McQueen’s siblings have also shared details of their upbringing, with his oldest sister, Janet, opening up about the abuse they faced.
From his unique designs to his untimely death, Alexander McQueen’s impact on the fashion world is undeniable, and his memory lives on through his iconic creations and the brand that bears his name.
