Photo credit: www.vogue.com

Sean McGirr’s Victorian-Inspired Collection for McQueen Captivates in Paris

As guests ascended a staircase flanked by a mirrored portal at an unusual angle, it became clear they were entering a world of temporal illusion and fashion innovation. Sean McGirr drew inspiration from the dandy aesthetics of the Victorian era for his latest McQueen collection. “My inspiration came from a compelling book, Charles Dickens’s Night Walks, featuring a character who wanders through London as an insomniac, reflecting on his introspective journey,” McGirr explained. “This concept of a flâneur—someone who possesses a deep self-awareness—resonates with the essence of McQueen, emphasizing a strong conviction in one’s character.”

Prominent advertisements for McGirr’s spring McQueen collection adorned the streets of Paris, appearing in bus kiosks and on building walls, leaving a memorable impression on passersby. This show marked McGirr’s third outing with the brand, showcasing an evident boost in confidence. Between seasons, he celebrated a series of high-profile red carpet successes, notably with Miley Cyrus dazzling in a black embroidered mock neck halter gown at the recent Oscars. In a viral TikTok moment, Cyrus exclaimed, “Isn’t it? Some would say the best,” when complimented on her ensemble, illustrating how such visibility can significantly elevate a young designer’s profile and brand recognition.

Fashion shows typically lack vocal enthusiasm, yet this presentation began with spontaneous cheers as the first model emerged from the mirrored portal. She sported extreme pointy-toed boots alongside a coat highlighted by peak shoulders and a lace ruff, channeling that distinctive Victorian Gothic flair. The meticulous tailoring adhered to the dramatic lines of the coat, emphasizing high armholes, elongated sleeves, and defined silhouettes.

The quintessential attire of this collection eschewed conventional suits in favor of more adventurous pieces. McGirr’s envisioned flâneurs meander through London in flowing, ruffled silk dresses, with hues drawn from the vibrant poster of the 1973 adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray. Additionally, the hats designed by Philip Treacy paid homage to Wilde’s unique gentleman’s attire, adding a modern twist that hinted at provocative undertones, according to McGirr.

In a bold stroke of design, McGirr blurred gender lines further by utilizing the same gold bullion embroidery for a fitted men’s bomber and an elegant women’s cape. Sporty jackets were tailored in complementary styles for both genders. Notably, the women’s version embraced a basque shape, reminiscent of the McQueen jean jacket that made appearances in the front rows throughout the season.

The collection was highlighted by stunning evening jackets, constructed from various textures of shearling that came together to form ethereal wings, creating a breathtaking effect as models navigated the extended runway at Jardin des Plantes. Reflecting on Wilde’s poignant words in Dorian Gray, “I am tired of myself tonight. I should like to be somebody else,” it seemed McGirr’s jackets offered just that possibility, inviting wearers to transcend their everyday selves.

Source
www.vogue.com