I have mixed emotions as I report that Gucci Group has made a commitment to carry on the Alexander McQueen brand following the designer’s tragic death. The group addressed the press today, stating that they will continue to grow the brand- and will follow through with plans to show his Fall 2010 Collection at Paris Fashion Week to commemorate the designer. A tribute to the designer will also be held at London Fashion Week, where McQueen launched his career.
Robert Polet, President and CEO of Gucci Group said: “I believe strongly in the Alexander McQueen brand and its future. Lee Alexander will leave behind an important legacy that Gucci Group will continue to protect, grow and celebrate. There is an outstanding team at Alexander McQueen, a team that has enormous talent and energy and a passion that Lee was extremely proud of, and so am I.”
While I do believe that the McQueen brand is unique and has a strong identity in the fashion world, I am not sure how it will survive without Alexander himself. Certainly, the new design team (which has not yet been chosen) will face immense scrutiny as they attempt to carry on his legacy. However, it is believed, that Lee wanted hisbrand to carry on:
Polet said he spoke with McQueen a few weeks ago when the two men decided that the label had acquired solid brand recognition that went beyond the name of the designer.
“‘That will be my legacy’,” McQueen said, according to Polet. “‘That’s something I will always leave behind’.” (NPR.org)
If this is true, then I do hope that the brand continues to go on successfully.
