This morning brought the untimely and far-too-soon passing of designer
extraordnaire Alexander McQueen. It is being reported that Mr. McQueen
tragically ended his own life.
Born, Lee Alexander McQueen on March 17 1969, the British designer was
the youngest of 6 children. At age 16, McQueen began working at a Savile
Row shop, among other bespoke clothing positions over the next few
years, taking him from Britain to Japan to Italy. He returned to Britain
in 1994 to work and later enroll at London's prestigious Central Saint
Martin's fashion school. Upon graduation from CSM, McQueen started his
eponymous label, later being named head designer of Givenchy in 1996,
and later, joining Gucci.
Mr. McQueen has been the recipient of much praise and accolades during
his career; named British designer of the year four times between 1996
and 2003, as well as International Designer of the Year by the CFDA.
McQueen was also awarded as a CBE (Commander of the British Empire), a
great personal honor.
His death comes just days before the start of London Fashion Week and
weeks before he was due to unveil his new collection at Paris Fashion
Week on March 9. SOMW's thoughts and prayers are with his friends and
family at this tragic time.
God Bless McQueen!
