Alexander McQueen has long been my favorite designer. There is no doubt that his were the designs that really drew me into the fashion world. I loved his creativity, his courage and conviction, his craftmanship, his sense of drama. I loved the way he turned his runway shows into productions. And I am fortunate to be able to say that I love the way I feel in his clothes. As avant-garde and out there as his designs could sometimes appear, it was always clear that he loved the female form and that it served as a wonderful muse for him.

The first full collection that Sarah Burton created for the house of McQueen was something that I just couldn’t look at. I was still so sad at the loss of such a supreme talent and I just couldn’t bear the thought of someone else trying to recreate his work. Fortunately, I finally decided to give Sarah Burton a chance, and I’m so glad I did. Her designs are so elegant and well-crafted and are such a lovely tribute to Lee Alexander McQueen. Her respect for the late designer is evident in both her last 2 collections. While the Spring11 collection seemed to be a parade of greatest McQueen hits, the Fall11 collection is clearly more her while still paying tribute to classic McQueen silhouettes and ideas.

Sarah Burton's belted fur from F11; McQueen's from F09

McQueen's mosaics from S09; Burton's china shards for F11

Sarah Burton for S11; McQueen's blue peacock from S09

Printed chiffon from Burton for S11 and McQueen from S08

A couple of McQueen's golds, from F03 and S08

and a Sarah Burton gold

White with lace and corset detail from McQueen S07 and Burton S11

Feathers in black from S07 and in white from S11

I love that she is still keeping his spirit and legacy alive, while putting her own spin on the house’s designs. Amazing that she’s cranked out 2 truly beautiful collections. No question that she had some gigantic shoes to fill.

Alice in Wonderland fans will know I’m talking about the release of Tim Burton’s take on the classic Carroll story. A while back, I posted about Alice and was eagerly anticipating the unveiling of exclusive Alice designs for Printemps in Paris. Somehow, I completely forgot about it until I started thinking about who I could get to go to see the movie with me tonight. Surprise, surprise, they’ve been up for over 2 weeks now!!! In case you haven’t seen them, here’s a glimpse.

First, Alexander McQueen. {I have been struggling with what to say about his passing. I just adored him and what he brought to the world of fashion and am so, so sad that he is gone. The world of fashion won’t be the same without him.}

Chloe

Nicholas Kirkwood -- "This time, I figured, why not just pile as much as I can on top?”

Ann Demeulemeester

Maison Martin Margiela

images via focusonstyle.com and style.com

ahhhh…and then there’s Paris.  Nothing makes my heart beat faster then Paris.  Not just for their hyper stylish fashion demographic, PLEASE that I can handle…there’s also Le Marais, the pan chocolats, Maison Martin Margiela, Lecleur…it’s all so deliriously beautiful and delicious.

ANN DEMUELEMEESTER

DRIES VAN NOTEN

MARTIN GRANT

NINA RICCI

SONIA RYKIEL

STELLA MCCARTNEY

VANESSA BRUNO

Many thanks to garance dore and Le Blog de Betty for a good dose of Paris fashion 24/7!

photos courtesy of style.com

Okay, we all know how much I adore Alexander McQueen, so it is not surprising that I have been following the news regarding his diffusion line for Target very closely. I have been keeping my eyes peeled for pictures and, so far, can only find the 2 posted below. I’m getting excited, though, by the prospect of studs, mesh, and tattoo prints all for under 129.99!!!! If you don’t own any McQueen yet (which is understandable, given the price), get ready for your chance to add some to your wardrobe. You might even be able to afford more than one piece! Just be prepared to get in line after me ’cause I’ll be camping out. Seriously. I’ll keep you posted on the news as I hear it. 

McQueen for Target, inspired by the lead singer of The Duke Spirit

There are few designers that take my breath away quite like Alexander McQueen. The way that he combines avant-garde and pretty is what truly blows me away. If I was a celebrity, I would wear him to every major event (and probably to the grocery store, as well!) I am lucky enough to have acquired a few pieces of his over the years, but all this has done is make me hungry for more. I’ve attached a few of my faves from seasons past (and current). Enjoy!

SS01

FW04

SS03

SS07

FW08