Alexander McQueen: New Creative Director Announced

Today is a new chapter in the history of Alexander McQueen's label. It has just been announced that Sarah Burton will take over as creative director. Sarah is a Central Saint Martin's graduate that had been McQueen's right-hand woman, working as the head of womenswear design since 2000, and she helped finish off his last collection  for Autumn/Winter after his suicide.

Alexander McQueen Autumn/Winter 2010

Sarah has been chosen not only for her design skills, but because she has worked with McQueen for over 14 years, so she is aware of the designer's vision. Jonathan Akeroyd, who is president and CEO of Alexander McQueen released a statement about Sarah:

"We are delighted that Sarah has agreed to take on the role of creative director. Having worked alongside Lee McQueen for more than 14 years, she has a deep understanding of his vision, which will allow the company to stay true to its core values. Sarah is extremely talented and under her creative leadership we are ready to enter a new phase in the brand's history."

The CEO of the Gucci group added:

"Sarah has a real talent, a close understanding of the brand, and the vision necessary to take it forward. We will be giving full support to Sarah and the team in the coming years."

The company are undoubtedly beginning to move forward again after the tragic death of Alexander,and hope to launch an underwear collection under the label in June. Sarah intends to continue working with Alexander's vision in mind:

"The creation of modern, beautifully crafted clothes was at the heart of Lee's vision. I intend to stay true to his legacy."

See our report on McQueen's last collection here.