Punk Rock Cool: Sarah Burton Unveils Dual Release Of New Alexander McQueen Collections

From leather and denim to punky belts and a touch of grunge, the British fashion house presents both its men’s and womenswear together, in a short film like we’ve never seen before

Creative director Sarah Burton bares all with a first for the British fashion house: a dual release of both PreFW21 Men’s and SS2021 Women’s collections, in the form of both still images and short fashion film by Jonathan Glazer. From a design perspective looks were a homecoming of sorts, a return to the trademark silhouettes that McQueen is known for.

“Shape, silhouette and volume, the beauty of the bare bones of clothing stripped back to its essence – a world charged with emotion and human connection,” Sarah describes, when referring to the collection.

A steady mix of billowing sleeves and strict tailoring are prominent throughout th entire collection, in muted dawn hues and delicate tones; soft blue suit-dress combos (with a surprise denim number) surrender into navy blue, white and light pink looks. The overall tone is calming, save for the jet-black leather ensembles that punches up the collection with heavy metal belts. A powder pink confection makes up the final look, complete with a choppy skirt as if hacked off by a Sweeney Todd himself (artfully done, of course).

When it comes to menswear, we’re treated to mirror images of the women’s looks, showcasing the gender fluidity of both collections. There are hints of the 50s with James Dean cool guy influence – dressed in the same early morning hues of the women’s garments. The Men’s collection features deep blue riding coats with crisp white shirts armed with McQueen’s signature voluminous sleeves.

The pne out of pocket item that stands out within the collection? A cargo green bomber-jacket-slash-carmel-trench combo with the words “Alexander McQueen, Est. 1992” emblazoning the back. Straight to the point, it’s a reminder of the brand’s storied history with the British fashion house’s late founder.

Overall, both collections stun with bold shapes and striking colours. Sarah is the master of punk and, again, she manages to make pretty with the prickly; a positive reminder there is light with the dark, ringing especially true for the current circumstances.

For more information visit alexandermcqueen.com or watch the short fashion film by Jonathan Glazer here.

Images supplied.