Sarah Burton to receive trailblazer award at The Fashion Awards
Alexander McQueen creative director Sarah Burton is to receive the trailblazer award at The Fashion Awards next Monday.
Burton will be honoured in particular for her visionary approach to the McQueen SS20 collection and for her championing of UK-wide craftsmanship.
In the past year alone, Burton has drawn on the expertise of the fabric mills of the North of England, Mallon linen and Irish beetling.
Burton has overseen all creative aspects of the Alexander McQueen brand since the untimely passing of its founder in 2010, including its expansion into innovative retail spaces; new global flagship stores; exhibition spaces and educational programmes.
This year saw the launch of the educational second floor of the Alexander McQueen flagship store on London’s Bond Street, where it hosts a unique community-building experiential space, intended to foster emerging talent and students throughout the UK.
Burton also founded an education programme which connects universities and colleges from around the country offering students the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of design and craft with the help of members of the McQueen design team. This pioneering approach starts in the UK and will be rolled out internationally in years to come.
Caroline Rush, BFC Chief Executive, said: “Sarah’s empowering and narrative approach to shows and her focus on community and appreciation of craft, technology and British heritage is what has made her one of the most respected designers of our time. Her commitment to sharing her vision and expertise with the future generations of fashion designers has been remarkable. She’s an incredible source of inspiration for many generations to come and we look forward to celebrating with her in London in December.”
The Fashion Awards, organised by the British Fashion Council, takes place on Monday 2 December at the Royal Albert Hall. Other honorary awards will go to Naomi Campbell and Giorgio Armani. For the full shortlist click here.
