Alexander McQueen | Spring/Summer 2017 | Runway Show

www.alexandermcqueen.com – Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 2017 The Islands The wild and magical coastal landscapes of the Shetland Islands were the origin of this collection. Their natural beauty has inspired local artisans who have passed their skills down through generations of women for centuries. In particular, gossamer fine Shetland Lace, worn by crofters’ daughters and royalty alike, woven with indigenous flora and fauna–wild heather, clover, poppies and roses; sea birds and underwater creatures both real and mythical–is re-imagined. The colourful interiors of solitary, deserted houses, faded over time and glimpsed through windows, fishing huts, sea walls, shipwrecks, lost treasure, Celtic paisley and the stoles and shawls sported by Scottish nobility are also referenced. Hand-sewn, patched Taatit rugs, traditionally given as wedding gifts, form the backbone of the story. When families are joined in wedlock, two of these are sewn together to become one precious symbol of unity and love. Softly tiered, narrow Shetland inspired lace dresses with delicately frayed edges are woven with the Tree of Life, ocean waves, spider webs, peerie flowers and cockle shell designs and worn with intricately worked leather harnesses edged with rows of jingling bells. More dresses are panelled, both oversized and worn close to the body, constructed out of patches of richly-coloured Fairisle knit. This is deconstructed further, pieced and patched with hand crochet or enhanced with tiny