With a moving tribute to her career at the House, Sarah Burton bids farewell to Alexander McQueen

The British designer worked closely with Lee Alexander McQueen until his passing in 2010, becoming the House’s Creative Director 13 years ago. In the Spring/Summer 2024 collection, Burton bids farewell by remembering her career at the brand and celebrating women in all their forms.

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The parade, which drew crowds eager to witness the magic, featured guest appearances by the likes of I.N from Stray Kids, Elle Fanning and Yara Shahidi. Filled with realistic bird sounds and roaring takeoffs, the event transported the audience to another world. “The show is dedicated to Lee Alexander McQueen“, highlighted the show notes, “whose desire was always to empower women, and to the passion, talent and loyalty of my team.”

The Spring/Summer 2024 collection was a tribute to women’s diversity, taking inspiration from Queen Elizabeth I, red roses and Polish sculptor Magdalena Abakanowicz. The designs featured tailored dresses with thick-cut seams, suits with fringe and red piping, as well as satin gowns adorned with blood-red roses. Threaded gold dresses and bold leather corsets enhanced natural figures, while other designs honored McQueen’s storied legacy.

The collection culminated with Naomi Campbell closing the show in a dazzling metallic gown, who treated the audience to an emotional moment as she walked the runway in tears. Sarah Burton departed with a standing ovation, marking the end of her remarkable career at Alexander McQueen, but her revolutionary legacy will live on at the House for years to come.

You can see Alexander McQueen’s collection in the gallery above, and, in other news from Paris Fashion Week, Matthew Williams returns to Givenchy’s historic codes for SS24.