McQ was founded by the late and great visionary of British Fashion and true genius, in the creative artistic sense, Lee (Alexander) McQueen in 2005. The range finds inspiration in street culture and sub-cultures, offering individual pieces that fit perfectly into the modern wardrobe of not only die hard McQueen followers but can be adopted by any and every stylish individual. It follows the main signature of the house collection, including structured tailoring, the nipped-in waist and of course, tartan, these are all distilled into wearable pieces that are distinct and evoke a quiet confidence but always hold a little piece of McQueen DNA. McQ collections often reference uniform and the military, drawing inspiration from Britain’s rich heritage and often reflect the emotion and raw energy often exhibited in his signature collections and Fashion shows. Traditional British techniques and fabrics are used in contemporary ways, creating pieces that are both functional and beautiful.
After Lee’s untimely death in 2010, Sarah Burton undertook the unenviable role of Creative Director of not only the main range but McQ as well, to which she has more then rose to the challenge and excelled. With particular reference to McQ she has offered collections of youthful, modern pieces that draw on the unique design archive of Alexander McQueen. Sitting in parallel to the mainline, that remain loyal to the brand’s house codes yet are designed to be worn every day.
For Spring 13 she offers a continuation from the more elevated AW12 McQ collection, the new season features soft, washed military pieces realised in shades of khaki and moss, alongside modern interpretations of classic street wear staples, like the military parka and the cotton drill military shirt.
The influence of luxe sportswear trend can be found throughout the collection, on everything from aertex jumpers and tracksuits to polo shirts. Almost as a juxtaposition, a make do and mend feel begins to emerge, with several pieces featuring sewn-on patches and several fabrications in one garment. Pieces feature ghosting detailing under lapels and of course the McQ tartan comes in camouflage colours, to tie in with the ubiquitous military undertone of the collection. That famous Gothic fingerprint of McQueen is evident in the insect and animal prints which appear on pieces.
