Born in the East End of London, the son of a taxi driver, McQueen started making dresses for his three sisters at a young age and announced his intention of becoming a fashion designer. McQueen left school at 16, landing himself an apprenticeship with Savile Row tailors Anderson and Shepherd, then working for Gieves & Hawkes and the famous theatrical costumiers Angels and Bermans. Whilst on Savile Row, McQueen's clients included Mikhail Gorbachev and Charles, Prince of Wales. At the age of 20, he spent a period of time working for Koji Tatsuno before traveling to Milan, Italy and working for Romeo Gigli.
McQueen returned to London in 1994 and applied to London's most prestigious fashion school, Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design to work as a pattern cutter tutor. Due to the strength of his portfolio he was persuaded by the Head of the Masters course to enroll on the course as a student. He received his Masters degree in Fashion Design and famously, his graduation collection was bought in its entirety by influential fashion stylist Isabella Blow, who was said to have persuaded McQueen to change his name from Lee to Alexander (his middle name) when he subsequently launched his fashion career. McQueen's early runway collections developed his reputation for controversy and shock tactics (earning the title "enfant terrible" and "the hooligan of English fashion"), with trousers aptly named "bumsters", and a collection entitled "Highland Rape". It has also been claimed that he was on income support and that he needed to change his name for his first show so that he could continue to receive benefit. Some of Alexander McQueen's accomplishments include being one of the youngest designers to achieve the title "British Designer of the Year", which he won three times between 1996 and 2003. He has also been awarded the CBE, as well as being named International Designer of the Year at the Council of Fashion Designer Awards. December 2000 saw a new partnership for McQueen with Gucci Group acquiring 51% of the company, and McQueen serving as Creative Director. Plans for expansion have included the opening of stores in London, Milan, and New York, and the launch of his perfumes Kingdom, and more recently My Queen. In 2005, McQueen collaborated with Puma to create a special line of sneakers for the shoe brand.
Alexander McQueen
|
|
Alexander McQueen 2007 Spring Summer Skull Keyring
This cool ALEXANDER MCQUEEN keyring features a clasps, a keyring and a skull pendant on wooven leather.
Made from a metal alloy and calf leather.
Made in Italy.
PRICE: $169.00
|
|
Alexander McQueen 2008 Elvie Patent Leather Bag
The Elvie from Alexander McQueen has a traditional and classic shape yet is updated for now with the bright patent finish leather. A great mix of ages. Would hold all the essentials for day and is best carried in the crook of your arm or snugly over the shoulder.
PRICE: $999.00
|
|
Alexander McQueen 2008 Patent Leather Hobo Bag
Black oversized patent leather hobo bag with silver hardware and zip fastening pockets on front. Alexander McQueen bag has a pleating on each side, an adjustable shoulder strap, a handle on each side and black cotton lining.
PRICE: $999.00
|
|
Alexander McQueen 2008 Patent Skull Clutch
A classic Alexander McQueen evening style to hold just the essentials. The back of the skull clasp has a subtle logo mark. Due to the patent varnish over the leather this piece should be protected from the rain.
PRICE: $499.00
|
|
Alexander McQueen 2008 Spring Summer Skull Paisley Scarf White
*This cool ALEXANDER MCQUEEN scarf features a skull paisley motif with a decorative skull border
*Made of a soft high count cotton
*Made in Italy
PRICE: $99.00
|
|
Alexander McQueen 2008/09 Autumn Winter Moc Croc Logo Plate Long Wallet (Black)
*This cool ALEXANDER MCQUEEN continental wallet features a brass logo plate and houses cards, notes and coins
*Made from moc-croc patent calf leather with brass hardware
*Made in Italy
PRICE: $149.00
|
|
Alexander McQueen 2009 Faithful Leather Glove Clutch
Inspired by Marianne Faithfull, Alexander McQueen's black leather clutch is the cool girl's essential extra for fall. Carry this hardcore hardware to amp up your rock-chic kudos day or night.
PRICE: $399.00
|
|
Alexander McQueen Balconette Fitted Dress
The balconette detail adds an ultra feminine flourish to this elegant Alexander McQueen dress. Accessorize with lace adorned accessories to keep a classic look.
PRICE: $999.00
|
