Fashion designer Alexander McQueen was born on March 17, 1969, in London, England. He passed away on February 11, 2010. He left school at the age of 16 and gained experience at tailors Anderson & Sheppard on Savile Row, a shopping street in central London, and Romeo Gigli in Italy. He then enrolled at Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London. His graduation collection in 1991 caught the eye of Vogue editor Isabella Blow, leading to his debut. His unconventional designs were beloved by the likes of Björk and Lady Gaga, and he won British Designer of the Year four times. From 1996 to 2001, he served as chief designer at Givenchy. His creations, which combined sensual and bizarre designs with the advanced techniques of his tailoring background, attracted attention every season. Signature designs include the unusually raised McQueen shoulders and the oyster dress made of multiple layers of chiffon. His iconic design is the skull. Yohji Yamamoto has named him, along with Rei Kawakubo, as one of his most respected and noteworthy designers.

In his private life, he was openly gay, and married in 2000. He was found dead at his home on February 11, 2010, but the cause of death has not been revealed. After his death, Sarah Burton took over as creative director, and the brand continues to operate. A street-level store is scheduled to open in Omotesando, Tokyo this spring.