Alexander McQueen

The fashion world lost one of its brightest stars on February 11, 2010.  Alexander McQueen took his own life, reportedly inconsolable following the death of his mother.

He was – without a doubt – one of the most talented designers of his generation; a true master of runway fantasy. His designs were loved and worn religiously by celebrities and fashion plates alike and influenced the styles of the masses who could not afford to purchase his impeccably constructed and tailored garments. Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue, summed it up best: “His passing marks an insurmountable loss.”

Alexander McQueen & Sarah Jessica Parker, 2006

His death comes at a time when he seemed at the top of his game. His Spring 2010 collection was an incredible success. The computer-generated prints, futuristic silhouettes and gravity-defying footwear explored new fashion frontiers.

Also, his models were accompanied by two robotic cameras that filmed their stomp down the runway, intending to stream his show live to the internet. (Unfortunately, the site was not able to handle the high level of traffic and crashed).

Now, just days before Paris Fashion Week and one month before he was scheduled to show his new collection, the future of the Alexander McQueen brand is uncertain. In short, no one can replace McQueen and it seems doubtful that anyone can even come close to replicating his fashion genius.

However, McQueen recently expressed his desire for his legacy to live on in what now seems like a rather chilling statement: “I want this to be a company that lives way beyond me…when I’m dead; hopefully this house will still be going. On a spaceship. Hopping up and down above earth.”

RIP Alexander McQueen. Your fans hope that your fashion house is able to successfully respect your wishes.

~Marisa, Director of Styling, Second TIme Around