As the fashion world bids adieu to Sarah Burton's tenure at Alexander McQueen with her final Spring/Summer 2024 collection, it's only fitting that we take a moment to celebrate the creative legacy she leaves behind. Burton, who joined the British fashion house as an intern in 1996, became the head of womenswear in 2000 and eventually the Creative Director in 2010. Undeniably, she has made an indelible mark on the brand during her 26-year career. Her last show is a poignant tribute not only to her vision but to the memory of the iconic Lee Alexander McQueen, who always aimed to empower women.

This last collection, like many others under Burton's creative direction, draws inspiration from a rich tapestry of influences, including female anatomy, Queen Elizabeth I, the blood-red rose, and Magdalena Abakanowicz, an artist who never compromised her vision. It's a testament to the depth of Burton's artistic exploration and her ability to weave diverse elements into a cohesive narrative.

As we come together to celebrate Sarah Burton's farewell show, it's the perfect moment to explore one of the defining elements that have characterised Alexander McQueen's eyewear throughout her remarkable tenure, which will continue to be a prominent feature in Alexander McQueen's eyewear collections in the future.

Jewelled

Jewellery has always been integral to Alexander McQueen's ready-to-wear silhouettes. In the eyewear collections, we see this affinity for opulence come to life with beetles, spiders, and skulls adorned with intricate details like pearls and Swarovski crystals. These embellishments, painstakingly applied by hand in various sizes and colours, imbue the frames with a sense of uniqueness and preciousness. The craftsmanship of Italian goldsmith artisans brings McQueen's most cherished codes to life, making each piece a work of art.

Undoubtedly, one of our favourite jewelled Alexander McQueen frames is the Alexander McQueen AM0325S 005.

Piercing and Rivets

For those with a penchant for edgy and contemporary urban style, the incorporation of piercings and rivets into Alexander McQueen sunglasses has become an iconic signature. Inspired by the aesthetics of piercing details, these elements inject a touch of rebellion into the eyewear designs, echoing the House's daring and unconventional spirit.

One of the standout pieces within the Alexander McQueen collection that exemplifies this style is the Alexander McQueen AM0228S 003.

Skull

The skull, an iconic motif synonymous with Alexander McQueen, encapsulates both darkness and romance. It delves into the visceral aspects of the human body while exploring the gothic undercurrents that have become synonymous with the House.

One of our favourites that showcase this style is the Alexander McQueen AM0376O 001.

Metal Sculpted

The Alexander McQueen logo, highly recognisable and distinctive, takes centre stage in eyewear collections. Whether it's the brand signature, Seal Logo, or Selvedge Logo, these logos make strong statements, adding a touch of femininity and glam chic to the eyewear.

Shop our favourite style: Alexander McQueen AM0368O 002. here.

Throughout Sarah Burton's tenure as creative director, these key pillars have showcased Alexander McQueen's constant innovation and distinctive creativity. They reflect a brand that consistently pushes boundaries, defies conventions, and empowers individuals to express themselves through fashion.

As we bid farewell to Sarah Burton and her remarkable journey at Alexander McQueen, her legacy remains intact, inspiring fashion enthusiasts to embrace the bold, the beautiful, and the truly avant-garde in the world of eyewear and beyond.

Seán McGirr is set to assume the role of Creative Director at Alexander McQueen, succeeding the renowned Sarah Burton and ushering in a new chapter for the iconic fashion house.

Shop all Alexander McQueen styles in our optical glasses and sunglasses collections. 

The upcoming Alexander McQueen FW23 collection will be launching soon.

Au revoir, 
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