Bugging Out At The Craftsmanship At McQueen

It always pays to take a second look. A visit to the Alexander McQueen showroom to see Sarah Burton’s designs up close revealed some startling fashion facts. Burton was inspired to create one of the most stunning pieces in the collection by a trip to Brazil, where she shot her last campaign.

A tulle column, the dress is covered with 1483 individually embroidered bugs depicting 37 different species. A skirt version of the same look featured 873 bugs and 97 different bug species. Each bejewelled bug was made by hand then stitched onto the dress.

Displayed next to these gowns was a series of bird of paradise inspired capes and dresses featuring lengths of lavish fringing. Each gown was constructed to a couture-level complexity that has become a hallmark of the McQueen atelier. The threads are individually colour blended by hand, then stitched into place in layers to create a thick fringe. Anyone thinking of buying one of these pieces should know this: the best way to keep it looking shiny, silky and smooth is with a pair of hair straighteners. Each look was combed and coiffed before its catwalk moment. McQueen said that GHD’s don’t come with purchase, but maybe they should...