Which British fashion designer founded the label Alexander McQueen?

Alexander McQueen founded the label Alexander McQueen. The British designer launched his eponymous fashion house in 1992, shortly after completing his master's degree at Central Saint Martins in London.

McQueen first trained in traditional tailoring, including work on Savile Row, before gaining experience in Milan and presenting his graduate collection. Fashion editor Isabella Blow bought the collection and became an important patron, helping propel him into the public eye. His early work became known for extreme tailoring, historical references and theatrical runway presentations.

McQueen also served as chief designer at Givenchy from 1996 to 2001, but that role was separate from his own label. In 2000, Gucci Group bought a 51% stake in his company, allowing the brand to expand internationally while McQueen remained its creative director.

A common mix-up is confusing the founder with later creative directors. Sarah Burton led the house after McQueen's death, followed by Seán McGirr in 2023; neither founded the label.