2011 Alexander McQueen 'Folklore Fin' Floral Stripe Print Draped Bias-Cut Gown w/ Shawl

ID: 0611262

Size: medium

Condition: excellent

This mesmerizing 2011 spring/summer Alexander McQueen 'Folklore Fin' floral stripe print draped bias-cut gown with full-length shawl stands as one of the most emotionally resonant designs from Sarah Burton’s earliest collection for the house. Alexander McQueen became internationally revered for combining razor-sharp tailoring with poetic storytelling, creating collections that consistently challenged conventional ideas of beauty and craftsmanship. After fifteen years working behind the scenes alongside McQueen, Sarah Burton stepped into the role of creative director following his passing, and this collection marked the moment she truly emerged with a voice that felt both respectful of his legacy and unmistakably her own.

The fabric is an extremely comfortable lined silky viscose printed with a stunning floral motif seen throughout looks 4 through 8 on the runway. Rather than relying on a straightforward botanical print, Burton layered mirrored florals, ornate foliage, and graphic black-and-ivory striping into a composition that feels almost kaleidoscopic in its arrangement. Shades of coral, rose, gold, olive, cream, and deep navy blend together giving the fabric remarkable depth as it moves against the body. The deep plunging cowl neckline folds softly across the décolletage while mirroring itself with an equally striking low draped back, creating an elegant sense of balance from every angle. The bias-cut construction allows the textile to skim the figure naturally, tracing the waist and hips before falling into a dramatic elongated hemline that pools beautifully at the back. You immediately notice the way the engineered print elongates the silhouette, drawing the eye vertically through the center of the design while framing the body almost like wearable artwork. The accompanying shawl transforms the piece even further. Unlike the gown itself, the matching print shawl is executed in a sheer silk chiffon crepe that floats with incredible lightness when worn. Whether left to cascade dramatically at your sides or wrapped loosely around the body, it introduces an almost ethereal quality that feels incredibly cinematic in motion. Early Sarah Burton McQueen designs have become increasingly collectible because they capture such a pivotal moment in fashion history: a house grieving, evolving, and finding a new beautiful way to honor his legacy.

This epic Alexander McQueen gown with matching shawl is in beautiful condition with no rips, stains or discoloration. Slips over the head with no additional closures. A wearable investment piece that will continue to increase in value.