Alexander McQueen

Born in London in 1969, Alexander McQueen was a designer with so much talent and experience. Leaving school at 16 to study tailoring on London’s Saville Row as well as working in Milan for Romeo Gigli, McQueen went on to study Fashion Design at London’s prestigious Central Saint Martins.  Graduating with an MA in 1992, he went on to launch his own label in the same year at the age of just 23.  

McQueen’s work was seen as both shocking and controversial, but his background in precision tailoring meant that even his most inspirational pieces were crafted to an exceptional standard.  Much of his inspiration as a designer came from historical contexts and traditions, which he would subvert to create shocking and memorable statement pieces that would often split the world of fashion’s opinion.

Appointed head designer at prestigious fashion house Givenchy in 1996 just four years after launching his own label, McQueen learnt the craftsmanship and intricacy of couture fashion.  During his time at Givenchy, Alexander McQueen created breathtaking pieces, but some of his more controversial collections were met with criticism from loyalists of the Givenchy house. He left Givenchy in 2001, claiming that he felt the house was constraining his creativity.  

Alexander McQueen had continued success with his own label until his tragic death in 2010. He was awarded the title of British Designer of the Year four times by the British Fashion Council (between 1996 and 2001) and in 2003, he was given a CBE for his services to the fashion industry. Many international accolades followed, and celebrities the world over all wore and celebrated his designs.

Sarah Burton, who was head of womenswear and worked alongside McQueen became his successor. Completing his final collection after his death in February 2010, she continues to lead the house today and McQueen’s influence and house style codes can still be recognised in her work.  She is most famously known for designing both Kate Middleton’s wedding gown and reception dress in 2011, and for designing Pippa Middleton’s bridesmaid dress too. 

Alexander McQueen trainers have been at the top of everyone’s fashion wish-list now for the last few seasons, and now they’re available in the same cool and chunky trainer design for your mini-mes! Each pair of Alexander McQueen white trainers comes crafted in soft-white leather, complete with iconic chunky sole! Their padded insoles and breathable holes make these trainers comfortable without compromising on style. Finally, your little ones can choose from a selection of colours on their suede-trimmed heels, complete with stunning Alexander McQueen branding.