In a spectacular culmination of her 13-year tenure as Creative Director of Alexander McQueen, British designer Sarah Burton unveiled her final collection for the iconic British House during Paris Fashion Week. Stepping into the role after the untimely passing of the legendary Lee Alexander McQueen in 2010, Burton has seamlessly carried forward his audacious vision onto the global stage.
The runway event drew a star-studded crowd, including Stray Kids’ I.N, Elle Fanning, and Yara Shahidi, who eagerly awaited the unveiling of Burton’s grand finale.
The show transported attendees into an intergalactic dreamscape, with the sounds of realistic bird calls and rumbling blasts-off, setting the stage for a mesmerizing journey. Aptly titled “ANATOMY II,” the collection paid homage to Lee Alexander McQueen’s enduring commitment to empowering women and celebrated the unwavering passion, talent, and loyalty of Burton’s creative team.
“ANATOMY II” explored the multifaceted nature of womanhood, drawing inspiration from historical figures like Queen Elizabeth I, the symbolism of red roses, and the artistic legacy of Polish sculptor Magdalena Abakanowicz. The runway spectacle began with Kaia Gerber, who graced the stage in a meticulously tailored dress adorned with bold stitching and daring slashes. The show then unfolded with red-trimmed fringed suiting and satin slip dresses adorned with vibrant blood-red roses.
Among the standout pieces were golden dresses intricately embellished with threadwork, complemented by bold leather corsets that sculpted and redefined natural figures. The collection also featured illustrative veins coursing through crochet garments, serving as a poignant tribute to McQueen’s historic legacy.
The emotional climax of the show came when supermodel Naomi Campbell closed the runway in a radiant metallic ensemble, leaving both models and audience members teary-eyed. The heartfelt response culminated in an extended standing ovation, marking a poignant end to Sarah Burton’s remarkable journey with the House.
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