This gown is from the Fall 2006 "Widows of Culloden"Alexander McQueen collection and is an amazing example of a how he took his inspiration from the past and gave it his own unique spin. This gown was produced as it was shown on the runway and it is exquisite. Rich, black silk velvet is lined in a stunning high grade, luxurious yellow silk. The back and shoulders cut to drape and emphasize volume and this was then beaded with glass tube beads. The cut is impeccable and the dress feels absolutely wonderful when worn. Excellent condition and rare. A true masterpiece!

The McQueen website has this to say of this collection:

With this collection McQueen revisits the subject matter of The Highland Rape ñ the show with which he made his name ñ but applies to similar territory a sophistication and expertise that reflects his experience as both couturier and designer.

The inspiration here is highly personal ñ the designerís own heritage ñ which goes at least some way towards explaining the exquisite hand-craftsmanship that goes into each piece as well, of course, as bird head-dresses and McQueen tartan. The collection is luxurious and romantic but melancholic and even austere at the same time. The silhouette ñ all nipped waists, bustles and exaggerated hip lines ñ is designed to exaggerate a womanís form and each piece is unique, a one-off couture creation with emotional content intended to be handed down from generation to generation like the most precious of heirlooms. Item# DD869