Alexander McQueen was born in London on March 17th 1969 as the youngest of six children. He left school at the age of 16 and was immediately offered an apprenticeship at the traditional Saville Row tailors Anderson and Shephard and then at neighbouring Gieves and Hawkes, both masters in the technical construction of clothing.
Alexander McQueen's collections are known for both the emotional power and raw energy of his shows as well as the romantic but determinedly contemporary nature of this clothes. It is typical of McQueen to use the juxtaposition between contrasting elements; fragility and strength, tradition and modernity and fluidity and severity. An openly emotional and even passionate viewpoint is realised with a profound respect and influence for the arts and crafts tradition. Alexander McQueen's collections combine an in-depth working knowledge of bespoke British tailoring, the fine workmanship of the French Haute Couture atelier and the impeccable finish of Italian manufacturing.
In January 2004 he launched the first ready to wear menswear collection and in October of the same year the British Fashion Council awarded him "British menswear designer of the Year".
January 2006 sees the birth of "McQ - Alexander McQueen", a denim-based ready-to-wear line under a new label. The collections which include womenswear, menswear and accessories are manufactured and distributed worldwide by SINV Spa.
View the MCQ range below
MCQ
