Rebirth of Alexander McQueen

After his suicide last year I thought the world would lose forever the magical talent that was Alexander McQueen. His shows had an amazing theatrical aspect to them and successfully turned the pieces into walking works of art. The merit to his genius I think was in how much care he took into preparing his pieces. He was known for doing his research and paying attention to detail and history.


His last collection will, no doubt, be remembered and emulated for a long time to come.

The amazing shapes (I LOOOVE strong, structured shapes - in case you didn't tell) and vibrant colors reminded me of Balenciaga's Spring 2008 Collection - but on steroids.

Balenciaga's pieces were stronger, sharper

(and ads featured Jennifer Connelly)

but McQueen's had a softer feel to them, especially around the shoulders, where there was such beautifully elaborate and intricate work that it almost reminds me of an Elizabethan collar:

The shoes in his collection were one of the oddest designs I've ever seen (but still wanted to buy!).

Probably recognize them from Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance" video right?
Indeed, Gaga, who was friends with the late designer sported three different pieces of his in her video:

She also paid tribute to him at the Brit awards and thanked him in her acceptance speech at the VMA's.

Other celebrities who loved his designs were:
                                                               Sarah Jessica Parker

Beyonce

and Anna Paquin

However as with all things that come to an end, others begin, and McQueen's house is no exception. Sarah Burton, who worked closely with him for 15 years, debuted her first collection this week and put evereyone's minds at ease because although he's gone, a part of McQueen's genius will go on through her. While not as dark in nature, her designs still had the regal air that McQueen's were known for. Some symbols she incorporated were those of the butterfly and wheat, both known to represent rebirth and fertility.
A wonderful rebirth indeed, while not necessarily better than her predescesor's, Miss Burton certainly made him proud.
And so I leave you with a link to: Alexander McQueen Spring 2011 for your viewing pleasure :)