McQueen: Loved by Stars from David Bowie to Lady Gaga

Lee Alexander McQueen, the British-born fashion designer who shook the fashion world in the 20th century. After graduating from Central Saint Martins, a school that has produced many renowned designers, he made his official collection debut. While serving as head designer for Givenchy for five years from 1996, he also launched his own brand.David Bowie's tour costumes, andBjörkand Lady Gaga, among many other artists, wore his iconic pieces. Furthermore, his contributions to the fashion world were highly recognized, earning him an OBE in 2003.

McQueen, also known as a "showman," presented unique designs through avant-garde productions in his fashion shows, leaving a strong impression on viewers. His collections, developed around fantastical themes, relentlessly pushed the boundaries of fashion and art using tailoring techniques, craftsmanship, and the latest technology.

Scenes from the exhibition and the opening party

McQueen's Definition of "Beauty"

“I want to capture things that don’t fit conventional notions of beauty and bring out their beauty.”

McQueen, who took his own life at the young age of 40, left a profound impact on the fashion world, and his creations continue to live on in his stead. This exhibition showcases over 240 of his garments and accessories, as well as pieces treasured by collector Katy England and Isabella Blow, who purchased his entire first collection. Numerous fashion show videos will also be screened throughout the venue. The exhibition delves into the romantic sensibility that lay dormant in McQueen's mind, exploring elements such as his signature deconstructed tailoring, gothic style, and the beauty of nature. It offers a chance to fully experience his raw, wild "beauty" that overturned conventional concepts of aesthetics and could only be expressed by him.

Sarah Burton, who succeeded McQueen as the brand's creative director after his death, commented on McQueen: "This exhibition celebrates one of the most imaginative and talented designers of our time. Lee Alexander McQueen was a true genius, a visionary. He constantly challenged boundaries in fashion creation, and he believed in his boundless creativity, innovation, and talent."

Commemorative Fashion Gala Attended by Celebrities

A fashion gala was held at the Victoria and Albert Museum to commemorate the opening of the exhibition. Numerous celebrities who wore McQueen's designs, including David and Victoria Beckham, Kate Moss, and Naomi Campbell, attended the event. Kate Moss performed a dance, and singer FKA twigs sang while wearing McQueen's acclaimed "Bird of Paradise" dress.

Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty
Period | Saturday, March 14 - Sunday, August 2
Venue | Victoria and Albert Museum
Opening Hours | 10:00–17:45 (Sat–Thu); 10:00–22:00 (Fri)
Admission Fee | £17.60
Address | Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL
Tel. +44 (0)20-7942-2000
http://www.vam.ac.uk/