Alexander McQueen, British fashion designer and couturier, is being honored with a retrospective of his most iconic designs at the Costume Institute. McQueen, who committed suicide on September 11th, 2010, was a graduate of the Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London. He presented his first collection in 1992 and by the end of 2007, Alexander McQueen had boutiques in London, New York, Los Angeles, Milan and Las Vegas. He was best known for the way he incorporated the macabre and the medieval into his apparel and accessories and for his use of theatrical imagery in his designs.
On Monday, May 2, 2011, the exhibit was fêted with the annual Costume Institute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Gala was co-chaired by the editor-in-chief of Vogue, Anna Wintour. The evening’s Honorary Chairs were François-Henri Pinault and Salma Hayek, and the Co-Chairs were Colin Firth, and Stella McCartney. Often considered the “Oscars of Fashion” this event was a red carpet of who’s who in fashion. Celebrities included Blake Lively, Jessica Alba, Fergie, Rihanna, Kate Hudson and Taylor Swift. Actress Sarah Jessica Parker walked the red carpet wearing a beaded McQueen dress from 2005.
“Alexander McQueen’s iconic designs constitute the work of an artist whose medium of expression was fashion,” said Thomas P. Campbell, Director of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. “This landmark exhibition continues the Museum’s tradition of celebrating designers who changed the course of history and culture by creating new possibilities.”
The exhibit runs from May 4th to July 31st and features over 100 pieces from McQueen’s collections along with 70 accessories. On view are his signature designs including the bumster trouser, the kimono jacket, and the three-point “origami” frock coat. The exhibit was organized by Andrew Bolton, Curator. Additional support is provided in partnership with American Express and Condé Nast.
Photos: Getty Images
Share the post "Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty at the Costume Institute"
