The History of Alexander McQueen
Alexander McQueen, born Lee Alexander McQueen, was a groundbreaking British fashion designer renowned for his provocative and theatrical creations. He launched his own label in 1992 and served as chief designer at Givenchy from 1996 to 2001. Throughout his career, McQueen received numerous honours, including four British Designer of the Year awards and the CFDA International Designer of the Year award. Tragically, he died by suicide in 2010 at the age of 40.
Alexander McQueen earned a reputation for his sharp style during his tailoring apprenticeships at Anderson & Sheppard and Gieves & Hawkes. His 1992 graduate collection was famously bought in full by influential fashion editor Isabella Blow, who then went on to help launch his career.
Known for his distinct designs that combined modern elements with classic Renaissance clothing, he combined diverse and dramatic shapes, patterns and materials in his collections. The colour red often took centre stage, alongside shades of black and white.
Appointed head designer at Givenchy in 1996, elevating his profile in the luxury world, it wasn’t until the early 2000s that McQueen was given the creative freedom to realise his vision.
He sold a majority stake in his company to Gucci in December 2000, and his role as the company's creative director allowed him to retain his creative freedom as a designer, while the support of Gucci facilitated his company's transition from a small London label to a global luxury brand.
In March 2001, he launched a bespoke menswear line in collaboration with Savile Row tailor Huntsman. A year later, McQueen also opened a flagship store in New York and two more in London and Milan in 2003.
Also in 2003, he was named International Designer of the Year by the Council of Fashion Designers of America, and awarded a CBE by Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of his contributions to fashion. In 2004 he was named ‘Designer of the Year’ by GQ Magazine.
After the death of Alexander McQueen in 2010, the brand continued under the leadership of McQueen’s long-time assistant Sarah Burton. Her first collection, debuting in Fall 2010, was praised for honouring McQueen’s legacy while simultaneously softening the brand’s aesthetic.
The brand expanded into bridal and accessories, reaching a broader audience and most notably, designing Kate Middleton’s wedding dress for her 2011 marriage to Prince William.
Today, the Alexander McQueen brand remains one of the most respected names in luxury fashion, known for their craftsmanship, innovation, and dark, emotional edge.
Notable Alexander McQueen Collections
- 1993 ‘Taxi Driver’ – inspired by Martin Scorsese’s film of the same name, with a gothic theme.
- 1995 ‘Highland Rape’ – theme of British imperialism in Scotland, female vulnerability and strength.
- 1996 ‘Dante’ – staged in a London church, featuring skulls, crucifixes and military elements with baroque tailoring.
- 2001 ‘VOSS’ – a surreal setting in a mental asylum, with themes of insanity and voyeurism.
- 2003 ‘Irene’ – a collection moving from aristocratic conquistadors to wild, tropical survivors in themes of colonialism and shipwrecks.
- 2006 ‘Widows of Culloden’ – featuring a hologram of Kate Moss, a spiritual sequel to Highland Rape.
- 2010 ‘Plato’s Atlantis’ – one of the first digital shows and McQueen’s final fully completed show before his death, envisioning humanity evolving into sea creatures.
Alexander McQueen Sneakers
Alexander McQueen was not known for its sneakers before the 2010s, focusing more on platform boots, sculpted heels, and gothic-inspired shoes. But an early collaboration with PUMA in 2005 launched a line of designer sneakers that resulted in a long-running partnership between the brands, which ultimately led McQueen’s in-house sneaker presence rising.
In 2015, the brand launched the Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneaker, which would become their signature and most successful design.
Since then, the brand has expanded its range with the sleek Court Trainer, futuristic Sprint Runner, chunky Flexion and high-top Tread Slick. These releases continue to blend avant-garde fashion with street-ready design.
Alexander McQueen: Answering Your Questions
Who is Alexander McQueen?
Lee Alexander McQueen was a British designer who founded the Alexander McQueen brand in 1992.
How did Alexander McQueen die?
McQueen was found dead in his flat in Mayfair, London, on 11 February 2010. The cause of death was determined to be suicide. The brand then continued under the leadership of McQueen’s long-time assistant Sarah Burton.
Who owns Alexander McQueen?
Currently, the Alexander McQueen brand is part of the Kering Group, alongside brands like Balenciaga, Gucci and Saint Laurent. Seán McGirr succeeded Sarah Burton as the Creative Director in 2023.
Is Alexander McQueen a luxury brand?
Alexander McQueen is a luxury fashion house, known for the high-end craftsmanship, innovative design, and emotional runway presentations.
Where are Alexander McQueen shoes made?
Most Alexander McQueen shoes are primarily made in Italy. The brand uses high-quality materials such as calfskin leather, suede, and durable rubber soles in their construction.
Is Alexander McQueen sustainable?
Alexander McQueen has made steps towards sustainability but is not full sustainable yet. They use responsibly sourced materials and invest in craftsmanship to reduce waste, and are part of broader environmental initiatives under the Kering Group.
What are Alexander McQueen shoes made of?
Most Alexander McQueen shoes are made from premium leather, including calfskin, along with rubber soles and suede or metallic heel tabs. Others incorporate canvas, mesh and neoprene. The shoes are typically produced in Italy.
How much are Alexander McQueen sneakers?
Alexander McQueen sneakers range in price from around €500-€800.
Are Alexander McQueen shoes unisex?
Most Alexander McQueen models are designed as gender-neutral or unisex, and are offered in both men’s and women’s sizing.
Are Alexander McQueen sneakers comfortable?
Alexander McQueen sneakers are comfortable for everyday wear, but many people experience discomfort during the break-in period. The Sprint Runner is the most comfortable sneaker from the first wear, with a lightweight upper and foam sole.
How do Alexander McQueen shoes fit?
For information on how different Alexander McQueen models fit, check out our Luxury Sneaker Sizing Guide here.
How do you tie Alexander McQueen sneakers?
For guidance on tying your McQueen laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!
How do I clean my Alexander McQueen sneakers?
An Alexander McQueen sneaker should be cleaned by hand. For the best results, remove the laces, then use a toothbrush to remove obvious dirt from the surface. Mix two drops of a mild detergent with 1 cup/240ml of warm water and use a sponge or cloth to gently scrub harder stains. Use a damp cloth to wipe off the residue, then let them air-dry.
For suede or nubuck, use a suede brush to remove surface dirt, a suede or pencil eraser for scuffs, and white vinegar or suede cleaner for stains. Dip a microfibre cloth into the liquid and lightly dab it on, let dry, then brush it over.
For a smelly sneaker, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe, then leave overnight. The powder will absorb moisture and neutralise the smell. Shake out the excess before wearing again. Alternatively, you can use silica gel or activated charcoal bags for the same results.
Laces can be cleaned with a mild detergent and rinsed afterwards, or you can put white laces in a 1:5 bleach and water solution for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
In addition, we do not recommend putting your shoes in the washing machine. Sneakers made of leather and suede can come out damaged. With shoes made of canvas or cotton, the risk is less, but the chance of damaged sneakers remains. So we recommend always washing your sneakers by hand. If you do put them in the washing machine, then place the shoes in an old pillowcase beforehand.
Where can I buy Alexander McQueen sneakers?
Do you have your eye on this brand? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse Alexander McQueen at different retailers and at different prices.
Popular Alexander McQueen Models
Oversized Sneaker
Alexander McQueen’s most famous model, the Oversized Sneaker features a clean, minimalist leather upper, chunky rubber sole, and contrasting heel tab with subtle branding.
It has a broad appeal throughout streetwear and fashion circles, able to pair with both casual and tailored looks.
Sprint Runner
With a lightweight upper and sculpted midsole, the Sprint Runner is more athletic in design that the Oversized. It has a foam sole that provides shock absorption and flexibility.
Despite the name, it’s not a running shoe – it’s a lifestyle sneaker for those who prefer a sportier look.
Tread Slick
The Tread Slick is a hybrid sneaker/boot that adds height and visual impact. The platform lug sole and canvas or leather upper adds a rugged look.
The chunky sneaker fits perfectly within current trends, making it perfect for the fashion-conscious.
Court Trainer
Sleeker and lighter than the Oversized Sneaker, the Court Trainer is inspired by classic tennis silhouettes. It often features soft leather or suede with cushioned soles.
It’s ideal for those who prefer a more minimalist sneaker.
Flexion
The Flexion is a vintage-inspired silhouette that’s combined with modern innovation. Its slim design has an anatomical feel and is made from soft calf leather and suede.
The lightweight split rubber sole adds flexibility and comfort.
For more FAQs on your favourite sneaker brands and models, visit the Sneaker FAQ page.
