Fashion Designer Alexander McQueen Found Dead
Alexander McQueen
Top British fashion designer Alexander McQueen was found dead at his London home Thursday morning, his family said. He was 40.
"On behalf of Lee [Alexander] McQueen's family, Alexander McQueen today announces the tragic news that Lee McQueen, the founder and designer of the Alexander McQueen brand, has been found dead at his home. At this stage it is inappropriate to comment on this tragic news beyond saying that we are devastated and are sharing a sense of shock and grief with Lee's family," said a statement released by McQueen's office.
Check out photos of celebs wearing McQueen
A Scotland Yard spokesman, who asked that his name not be used, declined to comment on the cause of death until a post-mortem exam can be completed.
One of McQueen's contemporary lines, McQ, was scheduled to be shown at New York Fashion Week, People reports. McQueen's New York store was set to be closed Thursday and Friday in rememberance, CNN reports.
McQueen was one of the youngest designers to earn the title of British Designer of the Year, which he won four times. His unconventional early runway collections earned him the nickname "the hooligan of English fashion."
Celebrities including Rihanna, Lady Gaga and Sarah Jessica Parker often wore McQueen's pieces.
"I am shocked and overcome with grief upon learning about the untimely death of the quiet genius Alexander McQueen. My heart goes out to his family and all those who worked for and with him," Parker said in a statement. "There has never been anyone like him. And there simply never will be."
"It's an incredible loss to the fashion world," said Project Runway Season 4 contestant Chris March. March said McQueen had a "fantastic vision and workmanship ... He's one of the most influential designers."
Check out more of March's comments in the video below: