“I’m a cliché”, a punk ballad plays in the background as models strut the runway. Military colours of army green and purple dominate the runway. It’s almost as if the models are soldiers marching from the form they walk in. While the outfits act as uniforms for these soldiers. These are some of the personal hypotheses I formed through my observation of the fashion show. Multiple suggestions and preconceptions could be derived through the various creative direction devices employed throughout this collection. There was a gothic air that seemed to envelop the stage and the show.


The styling of the garments employed the new age design language and 80’s style devices being introduced during that period to elevate the looks of a simple ready-to-wear collection. The main takeaway from this show was the styling, above all else, McQueen demonstrated to all in attendance the power of a properly styled garment. I am currently in a period of heavy experimentation with the styling of my outfits with a key focus on accessories, fabric manipulation and material. Therefore, this collection deeply resonated with me. I admit it’s not a jaw-dropping collection, however, that adds to its beauty of it. My understanding of the concept of achieving great looks through styling is reinforced.


A few styling decisions caught my eye throughout the show. The way the tartan patterned top was tied at the chest gave an outlandish appearance which perfectly matched the ring skirt being worn as well as the individualistic nature of a goth. Likewise, the metal arm bracelet seen throughout the show was an accessory that raised the style of each outfit it was paired with. The metal arm bracelet gave me a sense of solidarity with the models though not all of them wore one. Similarly, I enjoyed the use of 3-quarter gloves on the models on specific models, it was almost like a finishing touch on each outfit it was used. The blazers were all brilliantly sewn and presented, which gave a sexy yet refined nature we find common in McQueen’s work.


Purple is normally aligned with ideas of luxury and royalty. Although, in other scenarios, it can be interpreted as a symbol of unity or a political representation. With the use of purple in this collection I interpreted it as a symbol of unity in the show amongst models and McQueen’s ideology, whilst on the store front I am sure it is to be interpreted as items of luxury and desire. I do find the number of looks in this collection unnecessarily high, however, I do understand the need for a brand like Givenchy during that period to make sales. Another fact about this collection I adore is this collection stuck to the nature of ready-to-wear in its absolute as every garment is wearable and most materials used are long-lasting. This satisfied my desire for utility amongst clothes in general and specifically towards big collections where you’d normally expect wasteful production.



In more than one way I feel this collection is a reflection of myself, hence my desire to document and research it. I hope this drives you to take a closer look at yourself and your attitude toward your wardrobe.