British fashion designer Alexander McQueen, whose creations adorned such celebrities as Sarah Jessica Parker, Rihanna and Lady Gaga and was known for his flamboyant and sometimes outrageous styles, has been found dead in his London apartment, an apparent suicide. He was 40 years old.
Mother’s recent death
McQueen’s mother died Feb. 2. Some fashion experts speculated that his mood may have also been clouded by pressure to top himself again next month at his catwalk show in Paris.
McQueen sounded anguished and frustrated in recent postings on his Twitter page. The remarks also sounded slightly confused.
“I am letting my followers know the my mother passed away yesterday if it she had not me nor would you RIP mumx,” he wrote. Shortly afterward, he added: “But life must go on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”
On Sunday McQueen wrote: “sunday evening been a f****** awful week but my friends have been great but now i have to some how pull myself together…” Four days later, he was dead.
“We don’t have any information in terms of circumstances,” she told The Associated Press.
The provocative designer’s death comes just days before the start of the London Fashion Week. McQueen was also reportedly set to unveil his new collection at the Paris Fashion Week on March 9.
His company, Alexander McQueen, issued a statement saying: “On behalf of Lee McQueen’s family, Alexander McQueen today announces the tragic news that Lee McQueen, the founder and designer of the Alexander McQueen brand, has been found dead at his home. At this stage it is inappropriate to comment on this tragic news beyond saying that we are devastated and are sharing a sense of shock and grief with Lee’s family.”
In less than 10 years McQueen became one of the most respected fashion designers in the world. In October 1996 he was appointed chief designer at the French label Givenchy where he worked until March 2001.
In December 2000, 51% of Alexander McQueen was acquired by luxury brand Gucci, where he became creative director. Expansion followed and included the opening of flagship stores in New York, London and Milan.
McQueen was a four-time winner of the British designer of the year award as well as the international designer of the year award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America. He was awarded the CBE in 2003.
Our thoughts go out to McQueen’s friends, family and loved ones.
