Alexander McQueen

British, 1969-2010

British fashion designer Lee Alexander McQueen, the original creative engine behind the Alexander McQueen label, was beloved for his expert tailoring and theatrical runway shows. After his suicide in 2010, fans left tributes to the man and his talents outside Alexander McQueen boutiques worldwide. Record-breaking crowds visited the posthumous retrospective of the designer’s work at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and the Victoria and Albert in London.

The inspirations for vintage Alexander McQueen bags, dresses, jackets and other items came from many quarters — film, music, current events, history, his heritage and fashions of the past. The designer's runway presentations were not just displays of clothing but were personal expressions of the zeitgeist, often touching on our cultural anxieties and concerns. McQueen’s own thoughts and feelings about love, death, gender, genocide, colonialism, global warming and the extinction of species all appear in his pieces.

McQueen certainly shook up fashion; he was a born Rottweiler. His upbringing on a council estate in north London played a part, but his family was close and supportive, not dysfunctional. He was proud of his Scottish heritage: He was a defiant fashion warrior. His historical themes and shows — such as “Highland Rape,” 2002, which was inspired by England’s “rape of Scotland,” as McQueen called it — always invoked powerful reactions from his audience of fashion pros.

“What you see in the work is the person himself. And my heart is in my work,” McQueen told Harper’s Bazaar in 2007.

It is perhaps this heart, and the heart’s exposure, that drew the crowds and made McQueen's creations both popular and emotionally resonant. Because the work was personal and thus layered with feeling, the motifs — decorative embellishments and fabric choices — have meaning. In other words, in McQueen’s oeuvre, plaid is more than simply a pattern.

Find vintage Alexander McQueen fashion and accessories — including the designer's coveted bags and comfortable, stretchy jersey knit dresses and gowns — on 1stDibs.

Alexander Mcqueen fashion for sale on 1stDibs.

Find an extraordinary range of authentic Alexander McQueen fashion available on 1stDibs. If you’re browsing our collection of unique vintage and designer fashion to elevate your daily look or to introduce new colors to the dazzling formal wear in your wardrobe, this designer’s body of work includes elements of red, blue, purple and other tones. Customers who are interested in this designer might also find the work of Tom Ford for Gucci, Gianni Versace, and Roberto Cavalli appealing. On 1stDibs, find haute couture, vintage and designer Alexander McQueen fashion from top boutiques around the world. Alexander McQueen fashion prices can differ depending upon time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $51 and tops out at $134,996, while the average work can sell for $1,073.

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Questions About Alexander McQueen

What is the meaning of vintage couture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
The meaning of vintage couture relates to apparel of a certain type and age. Couture is the shortened form of “haute couture,” an industry term that refers to garments that are custom-made for the wearer and the labels that create those garments. Haute couture houses are officially recognized by a French governing body called the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (the Federation of Haute Couture and Fashion). The haute couture label is misused and misapplied with frequency, but in the proper sense, haute couture refers to clothing created almost entirely by hand. Other rules underpinning the term have over the years focused on factors such as the number of workers an officially recognized haute couture brand can employ and more. The broader “vintage fashion,” which obviously encompasses much more than haute couture, refers to apparel and accessories that are at least 20 years old. In sum, vintage couture means high-end luxury pieces produced by officially designated haute couture fashion houses at least two decades ago. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of vintage apparel and accessories for sale.
What materials did Alexander McQueen use?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Alexander McQueen often incorporated natural materials into his designs. Examples include hair, feathers, coral, shells and wood. Tweed is a signature material for many fashions, and the brand's scarves tend to feature airier fabrics like silk and chiffon. You'll find a collection of Alexander McQueen on 1stDibs.
How do I read Alexander McQueen tags?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
To read Alexander McQueen tags, move from top to bottom. The numbers at the top usually represent the UPC code and in-house tracking numbers of the brand. Below that, you can find the style number and name. When authenticating items, make sure that the information matches across all paper and sewn-on tags. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of expertly vetted Alexander McQueen.
What was Alexander McQueen's last collection?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Alexander McQueen’s last collection was the Fall/Winter 2010 collection, which was nearly finished at the time of his death. This collection was presented at Paris Fashion Week after his passing. Find a range of authentic Alexander McQueen products from top boutiques worldwide on 1stDibs.
Is Alexander McQueen prêt-à-porter?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, Alexander McQueen is a prêt-à-porter collection. You can purchase their fashions through the store's online store and various online platforms, including 1stDibs. In addition, Alexander McQueen sells their line through their brick-and-mortar boutiques and authorized retailers. The brand also releases seasonal haute couture collections. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Alexander McQueen apparel and accessories.
What is Alexander McQueen's most famous piece?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
Although the topic is open for debate, many experts say that Alexander McQueen's designs featuring skull motifs are his most famous pieces. The print appeared on handbags, apparel, shoes and other accessories. Shop a selection of Alexander McQueen pieces from some of the world's top boutiques on 1stDibs.
Who designs Alexander McQueen?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Sarah Burton designs for Alexander McQueen as of December 2021. She took control as Creative Director of the brand following the death of founder and chief designer Alexander McQueen in 2010. Shop a variety of Alexander McQueen garments and accessories on 1stDibs.
Who did Alexander McQueen influence?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Alexander McQueen left a lasting impact on fashion with his boldly artistic approach to his runway shows and designs. His daring collections and edgy silhouettes elevated the art form of fashion in general and continues to do so today. Shop a range of Alexander McQueen products on 1stDibs.
What brand is McQ?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
The brand McQ is a fashion label produced the by Alexander McQueen company. A diffusion line, it features contemporary sportswear designed to appeal to a younger audience at more accessible price points than the brand's main collection. McQ launched in 2005. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Alexander McQueen apparel and accessories.
What inspired Alexander McQueen designs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Many things inspired Alexander McQueen's designs. The fabrics and styles of traditional clothing worn in India, Africa, Turkey, China and Japan served as sources of inspiration. Music, film, theater, the natural world and the designer's own Scottish heritage also influenced his work. Explore a large collection of Alexander McQueen on 1stDibs.
Who owns the Alexander McQueen brand?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 8, 2024
Kering owns the Alexander McQueen brand as well as a number of other luxury brands, including Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent. François Pinault founded the French multinational corporation under the name Pinault S.A. in 1962. Kering was initially in the timber supply business (its focus shifted toward specialized retail distribution in the 1990s). Find a collection of vintage Alexander McQueen on 1stDibs.
How do I know if my Alexander McQueen shoes are real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
To know if your Alexander McQueen shoes are real, start by trying to bend the toes upward. Because they are finely crafted and made of strong materials, genuine shoes should be rigid and feel solid. If the shoes are very flexible or have a flimsy feel, they are likely knockoffs. Next, look at the logos and wordmarks used throughout the design. All markings should read Alexander McQueen in the correct brand font. Any misspellings, misalignments or unevenly spaced wordmarks may indicate a replica. Finally, examine the stitching. Sloppy, loose or uneven stitches are indicators of fakes. Should you still be unsure of authenticity after following these steps, seek the advice of a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert. On1stDibs, shop an assortment of Alexander McQueen shoes.
How many stores does Alexander McQueen have?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Alexander McQueen has around 100 retail stores worldwide as of December 2021. In addition, the fashion house sells directly to customers through its official website. In addition, the brand enters sales partnerships with third-party brick-and-mortar retailers, and their fashions and accessories are available on reputable online platforms. You'll find a large collection of Alexander McQueen on 1stDibs.
How did Alexander McQueen change fashion?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Alexander McQueen changed fashion in many ways. His shows revolutionized the runway, adding theatrical elements like music and poetry. In addition, he encouraged other designers to break from convention with his bold silhouettes and dramatic lines. He also started the trend of mixing timeless prints like Scottish plaid with unexpected embellishments like fringe. You'll find a selection of Alexander McQueen on 1stDibs.
Who owns Alexander McQueen?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 8, 2024
Kering owns Alexander McQueen as well as a number of other luxury brands, including Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent. François Pinault founded the French multinational corporation under the name Pinault S.A. in 1962. Kering was initially in the timber supply business (its focus shifted toward specialized retail distribution in the 1990s). Find a collection of vintage Alexander McQueen on 1stDibs.
What is Alexander McQueen's signature style?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Alexander McQueen fashions, shoes and accessories have a signature style that is eclectic. The brand borrows elements from the Roman, Gothic and Victorian eras and frequently incorporates dark colors, heavy fabrics and romantic embellishments like lace. Its skull-patterned scarves and oversized sneakers are among their most well-known designs. Find a large selection of Alexander McQueen on 1stDibs.
What is Alexander McQueen?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Alexander McQueen is a luxury fashion brand founded by a designer by the same name. The fashion house designs haute couture and prêt-à-porter clothing for men and women, as well as shoes, handbags, accessories and jewelry. Shop a large selection of Alexander McQueen on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between McQ and McQueen?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
The difference between McQ and McQueen comes down to the focus of the brands. McQueen is the shortened form of the brand Alexander McQueen, the high-end collection of clothing and accessories produced by the luxury fashion house founded by British designer Alexander McQueen in 1992. In 2006, Alexander McQueen introduced McQ, a diffusion line that offered pieces at lower points intended for everyday wear. McQ was discontinued in 2022. Explore a selection of Alexander McQueen apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
How do I pronounce Alexander McQueen?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
To pronounce Alexander McQueen, say "Ah-lug-ZAN-dur muh-KWEEN." The brand gets its name from its founder, who was born in Lewisham, United Kingdom, on March 17, 1969. Before launching his own label, he was the chief of design at the luxury house of Givenchy. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Alexander McQueen.
Who is Alexander McQueen’s creative director?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The current Alexander McQueen creative director is Sarah Burton, an English fashion designer who took the helm of the fashion house in 2010. She has worked at McQueen since 1996. Shop a range of Alexander McQueen products from some of the top boutiques worldwide on 1stDibs.