Long Live McQueen

Alexander McQueen. There’s so much I can say about this designer.

But pictures are worth a thousand words.

I recently headed down to Columbia Museum Of Art for a viewing of some of his most notable designs.

This exhibit was brought to the public by his longtime friend and photographer Ann Ray.

Her photos dotted the walls along with his designs. Almost as a love letter to her beloved friend.

From the dark eras to his final moments, she was there.

The chronological displays showed the journey of designs and emotions of McQueen through the years.

The juxtaposition of the dark, against the playful spring dresses was jarring. It reminded me of my own mental ebbs and flows.

The use of contrasting colors and textures is genius.

From darkness to light, then back again.

Gothic Elegance.

From sketches to patterns, we got to see his actual work.

These pieces remind me of nature in all its glory.

This blue is one of my favorite pieces.

As well as this one.

I took in the beauty of this breathtaking piece for quite awhile.

This coat with the Edger Allen Poe poem Annabel Lee stitched into it(yes, those are actually words on the coat) was a tribute to his dear friend Annabelle Neilson. It was one of the most incredible things I’ve ever seen.

Again his grief took over.

And soon he gained the closure he’d been seeking since the passing of a close friend and then his mother.

McQueen was a troubled soul, as most creatives are. He never felt he belonged in the world of fashion amongst the beautiful people.

His dear friend Ann Ray proved that he indeed did belong.