Farewell to the McQueen

This past February, I blogged about the tragic suicide of fashion designer Alexander McQueen. While I was not a fan of his work, it was sad to see such a huge influence in the world of fashion leave the scene so soon. He was only 40.

On Monday, a memorial service was held at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London for McQueen, and the fashion elite were out in full force to pay their respects. Anna Wintour (say what you want about Anna, but you gotta love this outfit - those boots are beyond fabulous), Sarah Jessica Parker and Daphne Guinness were photographed wearing McQueen creations. Oh, Daphne. What the heck is going on there? According to news reports, she fell over in her McQueen boots. Well, of course she did. I can’t help but agree with fashion editor Suzy Menkes’ comments on McQueen’s last collection: “the shoes he designed were some of the most chillingly misogynist footwear we have ever seen on the runway."

That was often my perception of McQueen’s work. It seemed to be designed by someone who didn’t like women very much. Harsh, severe, binding are words I would use to describe his work. Although, later in life he seemed to soften his approach to fashion. I guess he was one of the punk rockers of the fashion world and his clothes reflected that.

From today's The New York Times: As the service ended around noon, rays of sunshine broke through onto the checkered stone floor and a lone bagpiper walked slowly down the center aisle, past the congregation, toward the entrance to St. Paul’s, playing music from the film “Braveheart.” He was followed by the choirs and the members of the clergy, and was joined on the front steps by 20 pipers. As the guests filed out, many paused and listened, as did the crowd in the street below.

McQueen left an indelible mark on the world of fashion. Here’s hoping he has found peace and comfort in the afterlife.
Images from The New York Times and Daily News