Alexander McQueen

Alexander McQueen is one of the most talked about, controversial and inspiring fashion designers of his generation. Born into a working class East End family, McQueen left school at sixteen with one O-Level. His rapid rise through the fashion industry has seen him open boutiques around the world, man the helm of a Parisian Couture house, and be awarded the British Designer of the Year award four times, alongside a CBE. Known for his strong opinions, a series of clashes with the fashion establishment has earned him the label "the hooligan of English fashion". He now shows his clothing in Paris.

Key moments

• 1969 Born in East London
• 1985 Left school with one O-Level
• 1986 Began apprenticeship with Saville Row tailors Anderson & Sheppard
• 1990 Returned to study his MA at Central Saint Martins College
• 1992 His graduation collection is bought in its entirety by fashion stylist Isabella Blow
• 1996 Succeeded John Galliano as head designer at fashion label Givenchy
• 1996 Voted British Designer of the Year - the first of four occasions.
• 2000 Partnered with the Italian fashion house Gucci and opens new stores in London, Milan and New York
• 2003 Awarded the CBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List