Alexander McQueen dropped out of school at age 16 to pursue a career in fashion design, learning tailoring on Savile Row and pattern making from costumiers Angels and Bermans. He showed his degree collection fresh out of the Central Saint Martins Masters program in 1994, which was bought in its entirety by style icon and fashion editor Isabella Blow. The label is known for its dramatic, gorgeously constructed pieces, combining elements of British tailoring with French couture. Signature looks include billowy dresses cut in hourglass silhouettes, frock coats paired with skinny pants, sharp, angular suiting, and darkly romantic gowns covered in intricate embroidery and lace. Gucci Group acquired 51 percent of the label in 2000, where McQueen remains the creative director. In 2004, he designed his first menswear collection and was named British Menswear Designer of the Year by the British Fashion Council. The brand introduced fragrances in 2003 and 2005 (Kingdom and MyQueen) and in January 2006 launched McQ, a more affordable, denim-based ready-to-wear line including menswear, womenswear, and accessories. McQueen has flagships in London, New York, Milan, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, as well as franchised stores in Istanbul and Moscow.

Status

Critics' Favorite, Established

Clients

Sarah Jessica Parker, Cate Blanchett, Kate Moss

Other Product Lines

Eyewear, Fragrances, Handbags, Jeans, Shoes

Collaborations

Target GO International (2009), M.A.C (Fall 2007), Samsonite Black Label (February 2007), Puma (October 2005)

Owned By

Gucci Group (PPR)

Address

Gucci Group NV

31-20-462-1700

Where To Buy

Alexander McQueen, Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue

Related Websites

• Alexander McQueen (Official)
• McQ (Official)
• Style.com: Alexander McQueen (Media)