Alexander McQueen’s works have always been in the spotlight. His connect with wearable fashion was so intimate that his works are listed among the few designers who have managed to marry couture and practicality with consummate ease.
An exhibition of his collections from the 1992 Central Saint Martins Post graduate collection to the different designs in the ensuing time right to his last collection to be seen on the runway after his death, have found place at this exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
The exhibition named ‘Savage Beauty’ is a well defined body of his contrasting designs. The museum has put up close to hundred outfits as exhibits in addition to seventy accessories that have been designed by the master himself.
Each of the six galleries is dedicated to different designs, the most prominent being the three point origami frockcoat, the bumster trousers, the kimono jacket which have been placed in the first gallery named ‘The Romantic Mind’.
The second gallery, Romantic Gothic and Cabinet of Curiosities is a combination of history its romance and horror seen in each ensemble and accessory put up there. The third gallery has ensembles that depict his Scottish heritage, national pride and the tumultuous Scottish history.
The fourth hall named Romantic Exotism contains ensembles and accessories that have been inspired from different countries –China,India,Turkey,Africa, etc. The ensembles have elements of traditional embroidery, filigree work that have been interpreted according to McQueen’s sensibilities.
The fifth hall, Romantic Primitivism contains ensembles like a dress with black horse hair and yellow beads, a coat with synthetic hair and many more where primitive religions and sensibilities are the focus.
The sixth hall named Romantic Naturalism is McQueen’s take on the romance in nature which is evident in his designs.
Alexander McQueen’s fashion legacy and his brilliant contributions to the fashion world are on ample display here.
