Alexander McQueen
Kering · United Kingdom
Alexander McQueen is the London fashion house founded by designer Lee Alexander McQueen in 1992 and controlled by Kering since 2000. Known for sharp tailoring and theatrical shows, it is designed by Seán McGirr and led by chief executive Gianfranco D'Attis since June 2026.
| Founded | 1992, London |
|---|---|
| Founder | Lee Alexander McQueen |
| Owner | Kering (majority since 2000) |
| Headquarters | London, United Kingdom |
| Creative director | Seán McGirr (since 2023) |
| CEO | Gianfranco D'Attis (since 2026) |
| Website | alexandermcqueen.com |
What is Alexander McQueen?
Alexander McQueen is a British luxury brand producing ready-to-wear, footwear, bags and accessories. It belongs to Kering. Irish designer Seán McGirr has been creative director since October 2023, and former Prada chief executive Gianfranco D'Attis became chief executive on 3 June 2026, succeeding Gianfilippo Testa.
History
Lee Alexander McQueen launched his label in London in 1992 and gained attention with the low-slung bumster trousers of 1995. He was British Designer of the Year four times between 1996 and 2003. In December 2000 the Gucci Group, now Kering, bought 51% of the company. After McQueen's death in 2010, his long-time deputy Sarah Burton became creative director and designed Catherine Middleton's wedding dress in 2011. The Met's Savage Beauty exhibition opened that year and later travelled to the V&A. Burton left in 2023.
Products and positioning
McQueen is known for precise tailoring, romantic and dark themes, and dramatic runway shows. Signatures include the skull motif, used across scarves and accessories, as well as oversized sneakers and leather goods.
Business model and distribution
The brand sells through its own stores, e-commerce and selected department stores and wholesale partners, with around 100 stores worldwide by 2020. Kering has been restructuring the business: in 2026 it cut jobs in Italy, where 54 of 181 employees were affected, according to Modaes, as part of its ReconKering plan.
The house is also closely associated with British craft and with the wider London fashion scene. In September 2026 McGirr brought the brand back to London Fashion Week, reconnecting it with the city where it was founded.
Why it matters
McQueen is the leading British house in Kering's portfolio and one of London's most recognised fashion names. Its restructuring under new management is part of the group's wider effort to restore profitability.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Alexander McQueen?
Alexander McQueen is owned by Kering. The Gucci Group, now part of Kering, bought a 51% stake in December 2000.
Who is the creative director of Alexander McQueen?
Seán McGirr has been creative director since October 2023, succeeding Sarah Burton. He previously worked at JW Anderson.