Alexander McQueen was born in London on March 17th 1969 as the youngest of six children. He left school at the age of 16 and was immediately offered an apprenticeship in fashion, and continued working at various locations until 1994 when he returned to London and completed a Masters degree in Fashion Design. Since the time of his graduation, Alexander McQueen has become one of the most famous and respected international footwear, handbag and accessories fashion designers in the world. The Alexander McQueen handbag and Alexander McQueen footwear collections are known for both the emotional power and raw energy of his shows, as well as the romantic but determinedly contemporary nature of his designs. Integral to the Alexander McQueen culture is the juxtaposition between contrasting elements: fragility and strength, tradition and modernity, and fluidity and severity. An openly emotional and even passionate viewpoint is realized through his handbags and footwear collections. The Alexander McQueen footwear and Alexander McQueen handbag collections project a profound respect for the arts and crafts tradition. Alexander McQueen footwear and Alexander McQueen handbag collections both combine an in-depth working knowledge of bespoke British tailoring, the fine workmanship of the French Haute Couture atelier and the impeccable finish of Italian manufacturing. Fashion limits are far exceeded by his desire to create only the imaginable. Alexander McQueen handbag and Alexander McQueen footwear collections will continue to be one of the main faces on haute couture for years to come.