Seán McGirr, a 36-year-old designer from Dublin, has embarked on an exhilarating journey as the new creative director of Alexander McQueen.
His appointment, which took place just under a year ago, marked a significant moment for the iconic fashion house, known for its bold and avant-garde designs.
McGirr was selected from JW Anderson’s studio, where he had made a name for himself as the head of ready-to-wear. His previous experience includes notable positions at Dries Van Noten and Uniqlo, showcasing his versatility and talent in the fashion industry.
McGirr’s debut collection for Alexander McQueen was unveiled during Paris Fashion Week in early 2024, a highly anticipated event that set the tone for his vision. The collection was characterized by a striking blend of heritage designs infused with modern twists. For instance, he reimagined classic Jermyn Street tuxedos with curlicue lapels and introduced provocative communion dresses crafted from transparent crepe. This innovative approach reflects McGirr’s ability to pay homage to the brand’s storied past while injecting youthful energy and playful aggression into the designs.
Amid the pressures of the fashion world, McGirr remains remarkably composed. His calm demeanor is rooted in his extensive training at Central Saint Martins, where he honed his craft and developed a unique design philosophy. He emphasizes the importance of improvisation and experimentation in his work, drawing inspiration from various influences such as Irish folklore and London’s vibrant club scene. This eclectic mix shapes his collections, aiming to resonate with contemporary audiences while honoring the sophisticated legacy left by his predecessors.
The atmosphere during McGirr’s debut show was electric yet intimate. Set in an old train storage space in Paris, the venue echoed the gritty aesthetic of early Alexander McQueen shows. Attendees were wrapped in highlighter neon blankets, creating a stark contrast to the concrete surroundings. The collection commenced with a model donning a black draped laminated jersey dress that highlighted McGirr’s departure from traditional craftsmanship towards a more punk-inspired attitude. As models strutted down the runway clad in peaked shoulder jackets and deconstructed fisherman knits, it became clear that McGirr was forging a new path for Alexander McQueen.
Critics noted that while traces of Jonathan Anderson’s humorous design language were evident, McGirr’s work stood out as distinctly his own. He drew heavily from Lee Alexander McQueen’s Spring/Summer 1995 collection titled “The Birds,” which explored themes of destruction and claustrophobia inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s film. In revisiting this iconic collection, McGirr sought to modernize its silhouettes while maintaining its emotional depth.
In addition to women’s wear, McGirr boldly introduced men’s designs in his first show, signaling his commitment to inclusivity within the brand. His vision also included unique footwear inspired by Irish culture—boots modeled after horse hooves adorned with horseshoes—showcasing his heritage while pushing creative boundaries.
As he navigates this high-pressure role, McGirr remains focused on capturing the zeitgeist of contemporary fashion. He believes that Lee McQueen’s message of anti-politeness is more relevant than ever in today’s world, encouraging individuals to embrace their uniqueness and express themselves without restraint. With each collection, he aims to create clothing that not only looks striking but also resonates on a deeper level with wearers.
Seán McGirr is undoubtedly a promising figure in fashion’s future. His determination, respect for craftsmanship, and ability to blend tradition with innovation position him as a vital force at Alexander McQueen. As he prepares for his upcoming collections, the fashion world eagerly anticipates how he will continue to evolve this storied brand while leaving an indelible mark on its legacy.
