Fashion should be a form of escapism, and not a form of imprisonment. – Alexander McQueen
For Alexander McQueen, fashion was not only a form of art, it was a means for self-expression. Before his death, Mr. McQueen valued more than just how many sequins went on his next runway masterpiece, and more for the clothes that were being designed, where they would go, and their potential long-term influence.
Why do I love Alexander McQueen? Not for the cool skull prints known across the world on his chiffon scarves, not for the variety and diversity of his pieces, but rather because 1 man took his name and turned it into a worldwide sensation.
McQueen took chances with fashion that no other designer can say they ever took and after graduating from Central St. Martins in London, it definitely paid off. He took over for Givenchy in the 90’s as their head designer, and soon began to bounce around before creating his own label that took off towards the name recognition it has today. Okay enough of the biography, let me talk about why I love McQueen so much. When I first started in fashion, I first bought Alexander McQueen as my first expensive gift for myself, by myself. I bought the chiffon skull scarves, in 4 different colors, for my 16th birthday.
I knew nothing about McQueen other than what I’d heard from friends. As time passes, I learned more about McQueen and his designs have become an inspiration for me. I wish I was in London right now so I could visit the “Savage Beauty” exhibit running at the moment. It’s an entire exhibit dedicated to McQueen and his influence, which is not something to be missed. McQueen taught me not to let the industry hold me back. Also, to let my creative juices flow because my creations have to be just that: mine. I may never know the real origins of Alexander McQueen’s inspiration. I do know that he and his creations are my inspirations.