Alexander McQueen Fall Winter 2024-25 Fashion Show

Seán McGirr's debut collection for Alexander McQueen ushered in a new era for the fashion house, paying homage to Lee McQueen's legacy while infusing his own creative vision into the brand.

The show opened with a nod to McQueen's iconic "The Birds" collection, with a model wrapped in shiny black laminated jersey, evoking a compressed silhouette reminiscent of McQueen's past work. The venue, a disused railway shed, echoed the rawness of McQueen's original shows in London, setting the stage for McGirr's interpretation of the brand.

Drawing inspiration from runway photos and paparazzi shots of Kate Moss and Amy Winehouse, McGirr aimed to capture the hedonistic spirit of the '90s, channeling a sense of rough glamour and damaged opulence. He embraced the idea of singular characters with strong personalities, embodying the ethos of outsiders and fringe dwellers.

The collection juxtaposed elements of constriction with bursts of liberation, featuring binding lashings around skinny-legged jeans and explosions of fur-like knitwear bursting from under tailoring. Animal prints and DIY punk-inspired details added to the visceral energy of the garments, reflecting McGirr's penchant for cutting up, customizing, and repurposing found objects.

While paying homage to McQueen's signature style with jet-beaded pants suits and tailored coats, McGirr introduced a new element of street and club wear, infusing the collection with a contemporary edge. He offered glimpses of his Irish Dubliner identity through details like hefty boots encased in horse hooves, inspired by the horse-keeping Travelers of his hometown.

As Enya's "Orinoco Flow (Sail Away)" played at the finale, McGirr's spontaneous guest singing along broke the ice and hinted at the promise of a new chapter for Alexander McQueen under his creative direction. With a playful yet assertive approach, McGirr showcased a vision that honors the brand's heritage while paving the way for its future evolution.