The House of McQueen

Before I start blogging in earnest about Fashion Season (NYC, London, Milan & Paris), I want to highlight a couple of collections. The most moving for me was that of Alexander McQueen. Not because it was the best collection of the season but because it was his last.

Sixteen looks in all. Not a large collection but I wonder what remained in the workroom as a result of his untimely death. He died the week before London so he had time to finish several more pieces.

How do I know that? As the daughter of a dressmaker, I know the manic state you get to when you are working on something you love. You don't stop to eat; you don't get much sleep and you work until your hands are getting numb. I've been there. I have sat for hours beading the bodice of a gown. I have spent hours on endless finishing details. I have sewn and ripped and re-sewn many a garment with my mother.

It was classic Alexander McQueen. The cuts, the embellishments, the finishing touches were wonderful. I do not envy the person who is going to take over. There are some really big shoes to fill. They are extremely big shoes. I am not sure who is big enough or gutsy enough to actually step in and not feel totally exposed.

So, to the House of McQueen, choose well. Make sure that Mr. McQueen's replacement is someone who will stay true to the vision of this incredible designer. Make sure that they have that same ability to take us on a journey we were not sure we wanted to make. Find someone who will take us to the fashion edge and then hold our hand so that we drop the fear of being so far out on that limb. Get someone who will show us beauty and anger, outrageous costumes and elegant gowns. Make sure they understand the art of embellishment and the importance of the finishing touches.

When the fall shows roll around I hope that we get to see exactly what Alexander McQueen would have wanted us to see. What we see as his vision for Fall 2010 is brilliant. Let us see how Alexander McQueen would have had us celebrate Spring 2011.

a la prochaine

Debra