RUNWAY: McQ FW12

When Sarah Burton announced that McQ, the lower-priced diffusion line from the late Alexander McQueen, was going to show its FW12 collection during London Fashion Week, it meant (a) the first ever McQ runway show and (b) the first time in nearly a decade that a line bearing the McQueen name would be shown during London Fashion Week.

Anticipation and expectations were high and Sarah Burton did not disappoint, in fact, she exceeded expectation. Strong military looks with chic color blocking details littered the autumnal runway. The collection had differing elements from the previously stated military themes to others like one of heritage, both Burton's and McQueen's, as well officer bottoms that were harkening a different era but proportion and silhouette felt fresh; the collection was beautiful and youthful. Though we've always liked Sarah Burton for McQueen, more for her womenswear than menswear, this McQ collection was the first time we were awed by the British designer's menswear. One could only hope to see something as chic and as strong for the mainline collection this coming June.