Alexander McQueen ‘Roses’ – the celebration of nature and emerging talents
Words by Patricia Zaraś
The Alexander McQueen flagship store at 27 Old Bond Street is currently displaying a new exhibition titled ‘Roses’. The show pays tribute to McQueen’s exceptional craftsmanship and love of nature while touching on a strong sense of community present in the fashion house. The installation is structured around two iconic pieces: Sarah Burton’s swirling Rose dress from the Autumn/Winter 2019 show, and Alexander Lee McQueen’s ravishing fresh flowers gown from the Spring/Summer 2007 collection, which fell away as the model was walking. Flowers have always played a significant part in the designer’s practice, as its delicate and fugacious nature reflected Lee’s relationship with fashion and beauty. “Nothing is forever.There was a fragility to this collection, in the idea that nothing is permanent, that beauty disappears,” - McQueen told AnOther Magazine at the time. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="2554"] Photography by Tim Beddow[/caption] [caption id="attachment_4011" align="aligncenter" width="2554"] Photography by Tim Beddow[/caption] Each garment is accompanied by samples of work-in-progress and detailed research, taking visitors on a creative journey through the careful process of creating famous masterpieces. In the background, one can hear a video following head of atelier Judy Halil as she makes the Rose dress step-by-step. Additionally, every guest is welcome to take advantage of free guided tours. [caption id="attachment_4014" align="aligncenter" width="1628"] Photography by Chloe Le Drezen[/caption] That being said, what really lays at the heart of the show is Burton’s commitment to providing inclusivity in fashion. “Right from the beginning, when I started with Lee, from Central Saint Martins in 1996, and there were only a few of us, he gave everyone – the interns as well – hands-on experience in making things,” said Burton in an interview with Sarah Mower. Recognising that, the brand has organised a series of free of charge talks and workshops for fashion students from across the country, providing them with a unique chance to meet the creative director and head of atelier as well as explore the history and skills of the fashion house. [caption id="attachment_4012" align="aligncenter" width="1699"] Photography by Tim Beddow[/caption]