Fit for a ‘Queen

Recently I blogged about the late Alexander McQueen‘s new creative director Sarah Burton (See Long Live McQueen). Today she is known throughout the world for designing a wedding dress fit for a princess. What a difference a day makes. I know Mr. McQueen is very proud and happy to know that his legacy will forever be etched in history with not only one but three gowns worn during such a historical event. You heard it here first that his brand was left in good hands.

While I’m here in the U.K. visiting his home town London, back stateside in New York the Costume Institute exhibition “Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty” opens today at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.  The show includes more than 100 of McQueen’s designs from collections that span over two decades. When I return to NY viewing this exhibition in honor of his life is at the top of my list of things to do. (May 4th – July 31)

Hats off to Philip Treacy!

The Queen‘s dress code for the Royal Wedding required that all ladies wear hats. I’m not sure if that’s a British royal tradition or because the ceremony was being held inside of a church?  All the ladies arrived adorning a wide variety of styles with the exception of the Prime Minister’s wife. I bet she will be dealt with later by the Queen for her public display of disrespect.

Philip Treacy’s hat designs were the show stopping, statement makers for the occasion. As a creative person,I admire his creativity because his designs are so over the top. I love it when a designer is able to merge art and fashion to create a beautiful masterpiece and Philip Treacy does not disappoint. For all those that are criticizing his work calling his creations crazy, I think they are crazy too because people criticize what they don’t understand. Those who appreciate art and fashion get it. Those who don’t have a clue, I say off with their heads!  Just kidding. I am posting a poll for the most fierce hat of all. Be sure to vote.

Victoria Beckham

Miriam Gonzalez Durantez and Annabel Ballin

Sophie, Countess

Claudia Bradby

Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatric

Tara Palmer-Tomkinson

Long Live Alexander McQueen

At age 40, Alexander McQueen said in one of his last known interviews, “When I’m dead, hopefully this house will still be going.”  Had he still been alive, McQueen would have celebrated his 42nd birthday on March 17, 2011. I dedicate this post to his memory.

The Alexander McQueen brand was placed in the very competent hands of Sarah Burton. Gucci Group chose his assistant for the past 14 years as his successor.  His untimely death February 11, 2010 left fashion insiders wondering if his company could still thrive without his inspiration.  There was a lot of doubt because McQueen’s work is considered so unique.
Sarah Burton was the watchful eye within his design studio.  McQueen created incredible, jaw-dropping, showpieces; Burton assisted him.  She was also responsible for designing the wearable clothes that appeared in stores.  It’s very apparent from viewing her first collection as Creative Director that his design aesthetic is part of her DNA.  Hope has been renewed. The Alexander McQueen brand is alive and well.  Rest in peace, Mr. McQueen.