Alexander McQueen

Describing himself as a 'stitch bitch', he downplayed his extraordinary talent in the fashion world. Born in London in 1970, he was dubbed the 'pink sheep' of the family due to his humble background and pursuit of a solid education. Initially trained as a tailor on London's prestigious Savile Row, he later honed his skills in theater costume design and at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. His final art school collection caught the eye of influential fashion journalist Isabella Blow, who bought it in its entirety. In 1992, he founded 'Alexander McQueen', marking the beginning of his reign as the British enfant terrible. Known for blending British tailoring with art and shock value, he pushed boundaries with designs like the infamous 'Bumsters' pants. Despite a tumultuous stint as head designer at Givenchy, he refocused on growing his own brand after being fired in 2001. Launching perfumes, cosmetics, and eyewear, he continued to expand the brand until his tragic death in 2010. Following his passing, Sarah Burton took the helm of Alexander McQueen, infusing the brand with a feminine touch while maintaining its bold statements. Most notably, she designed Catherine Middleton's iconic wedding dress in 2011. The legacy of Alexander McQueen lives on through its combination of skill, talent, rebellion, and heartfelt creativity. The brand's founder, who once expressed a fear of living without his mother, tragically took his own life in 2010, leaving behind a lasting impact on the fashion world.