Following the shock news back in early September of Sarah Burton‘s sudden departure from Alexander McQueen, Kering has seemingly wasted no time in seeking a replacement. Not even a week has passed since Burton received a standing ovation (from both front row attendees and theFashionSpot’s very own forum members) as she took her final bow as creative director of McQueen during Paris Fashion Week on Saturday. Yesterday, the world-class luxury group owned by François-Henri Pinault announced Seán McGirr as Burton’s successor.
At 35, the Irish designer (born in Dublin) has quite the portfolio. Prior to his new appointment at McQueen, McGirr held the position of head of ready-to-wear at JW Anderson and prior to that, was women’s designer for Dries Van Noten. From 2014 to 2018, McGirr was part of Uniqlo’s creative offices in both Tokyo and Paris, having started his career assisting at Burberry. A Central Saint Martins graduate, McGirr obtained his Master of Arts in Fashion in 2014.
It didn’t take long for members of our forums to react to the news. “Complete shock, I’ve never heard of him neither about his input, aesthetic etc. I was hoping that for such fashion house they will actually bring someone who was at least studio director level etc. Regardless, there is a benefit of the doubt so I wish him all the best,” voiced Olaffo.
“Wow that was fast… I guess Sarah’s departure was in the works for a while. I do like that Kering seems to go for the unknown but behind the scenes experienced designers compared to LVMH always chasing the stars. JW Anderson and Dries are great credentials,” stated Marc10.
“I must say, I’m extremely disappointed they didn’t promote someone from the company. Let’s see how he’s going to understand McQueen, but it somehow makes me terrified,” added perhydrol.
“Guess we need to wait what he’s going to do to the house. I hope he keeps the spirit of the house alive,” wrote forum member Mrs.T.
“Surprising. Best of luck. Let’s not be Negative Nancies and wait for his first collection,” Thefrenchy reasoned.
Share your own thoughts on McGirr’s appointment at Alexander McQueen, take a look back as his early work and join the conversation over on theFashionSpot forums, here.
