Long live McQueen

At Scout, we were shocked to discover that one of fashion’s most original talents, Alexander McQueen, died at his home yesterday. It is believed he may have taken his own life, just a week after the death of his mother, to whom he was very close. McQueen inspired a generation of British designers and helped to launch the career of Australian designer Tina Kalivas. His shows were provocative spectacles, but we must never forget the pure quality of the workmanship behind the drama. As a student at Central Saint Martins, Alexander – or “Lee” as he was known to staff and students – often came to talk to us and gave us the real, behind the scenes story of working in the fashion industry, without the gloss and fluff. As a fashion journalist, he and stylist Katie Grand were my very first interview subjects; incredibly kind and honest to a raw fashion graduate. Our thoughts are with McQueen’s family, friends and design team. His was a talent that won’t be forgotten.

Kirsty Munro