Spooky Season's Signature Skull Style

Alexander McQueen, one of the most famous fashion designers of all time, became known for the constant inclusion of skulls in his designs. His iconic skull motif became a symbol of his unique style, transcending from clothing to accessories and even into his interior designs. Since its creation in 2001, the brand has become renowned for its use of skulls as a recurring symbol in fashion.

Alexander McQueen’s use of the skull motif can be traced back to his childhood. Growing up in a working-class family, McQueen was surrounded by macabre imagery. His mother and grandmother were both avid readers of horror and murder-mystery novels, and his siblings occasionally wore skull-themed clothing. In addition, McQueen was exposed to the grim, often gothic, Victorian funeral culture that was common in East London at that time.

McQueen stated that his genuine interest in skulls was sparked by Damien Hirst’s skull sculptures. According to McQueen, he was inspired by the beauty of these pieces and was eager to bring that element of death into his own fashion designs. McQueen used the skull motif to bring attention to the themes of death and destruction in his collections, but also a certain power and strength that death can bring. He also mentioned that he wanted to visually represent the darker aspects of life that people often felt uncomfortable discussing.

Throughout McQueen’s career, his use of skulls developed and changed over time. He used skulls in a variety of ways to create iconic looks. He included the symbol in his clothing, as seen in his S/S08 collection, where he used the pattern in a variety of prints. He also created leather jackets and coats adorned with crystal-studded skulls, as a way to combine classic punk aesthetics with high-end couture. McQueen also used skulls as interior features, placing them on tables, lamps, and even walls in his homes.

McQueen believed that his use of skulls was a way of creating fashion that was distinct from other designers. He felt that skull motifs could move beyond just a symbol of punk rebellion and be used as a statement of power and strength. He also believed that these motifs provided a powerful way for his work to represent the darker aspects of life, and used it as a way to discuss themes of mortality.

McQueen’s use of the skull motif has had a lasting impact on the fashion industry, making it one of the most desirable labels. This season, visit Renaissance Fine Consignment for access to Alexander McQueen’s iconic designs at affordable prices.