McQueen's L.A. Debut
Alexander McQueen made his Los Angeles debut on Jan. 21 with the presentation of his Spring/Summer 2004 collection at the Chateau Marmont. The collection transported the audience back in time with clothes inspired by Sydney Pollack’s Depression-era film, “They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?” The collection included 1930s-inspired gowns in sequins and ruffled chiffons; intricate seamed suits; patchwork suits, coats and dresses; and crystal-encrusted gloves and thigh highs.
The show, while less dramatic than McQueen’s Paris staging of a dance marathon, contained all the drama one expects from the designer, including severe necklines, corsetinspired looks and dramatic feather capes. Although reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour, the collection had a modern, contemporary edge that made it extremely wearable.
The Chateau Marmont’s intimate setting was the ideal place for the audience to appreciate the fine tailoring, couture construction and impeccable finishing of the collection.
Lisa Love, West Coast editor of Vogue magazine, hosted the two private salon-style fashion shows, which were followed by a trunk show in the chic Penthouse 64. The trunk show, which included the Autore South Sea Pearls jewelry featured in the fashion shows, continued for two days after the presentation of McQueen’s collection.
Hollywood insiders, stylists, editors and celebrities—including Leelee Sobieski, Anjelica Huston, Eve, Jennifer Tilly, Dennis Hopper and the late Helmut Newton—attended the event.
Snowden Hill created the dramatic hairstyles for the show with the help of Vidal Sassoon, Beverly Hills. Gemma Smith-Edhouse created the makeup looks, and M.A.C. professional artist Phillip Chansel flew in from London to apply the cosmetics.
—N. Jayne Seward
