Alexander McQueen Dead at 40

Fashion designer, Alexander McQueen, who was scheduled to start off Fashion Week today, was found dead in his apartment in London. It is believed that the 40 year old designer committed suicide.

His unique style and designs were an innovative addition to the fashion industry.

McQueen's family issued a statement stating that "On behalf of Lee McQueen's family, Alexander McQueen today announces the tragic news that Lee McQueen, the founder and designer of the Alexander McQueen brand, has been found dead at his home. At this stage it is inappropriate to comment on this tragic news beyond saying that we are devastated and are sharing a sense of shock and grief with Lee's family. Lee's family has asked for privacy in order to come to terms with this terrible news and we hope the media will respect this."

Here’s what some of the people and co-workers who knew him had to say:

Naomi Campbell: “I am truly devastated to lose my close friend. His talent had no boundaries and he was an inspiration to everyone who worked with him and knew him. This is a sad day to all who loved him around the world and my condolences are with his family. I will miss him so much, he will never be forgotten.”

Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief, Vogue: “We are devastated to learn of the death of Alexander McQueen, one of the greatest talents of his generation. He brought a uniquely British sense of daring and aesthetic fearlessness to the global stage of fashion. In such a short career, Alexander McQueen’s influence was astonishing—from street style to music culture and the world’s museums. His passing marks an insurmountable loss.”

Lagerfel, Chanel designer: “I found his work very interesting and never banal. There was always some attraction to death, his designs were sometimes dehumanized. Who knows, perhaps after flirting with death too often, death attracts you."

I think it is fair to say that Alexander McQueen was a unique and talented designer whose designs will be marveled and admired for years to come, I doubt there will ever be a designer quite like him. He will be greatly missed.

Thanks,

Billie