Lifestyle
A Brief History of Alexander McQueen: The Rebel of British Fashion
Alexander McQueen, a name synonymous with provocative and boundary-pushing design, left an indelible mark on the fashion world. Born Lee Alexander McQueen on 17 March 1969 in London, the British designer rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most celebrated fashion icons of his time. He was known for his theatrical runway shows and avant-garde collections. McQueen transformed fashion into an art form that challenged societal norms and celebrated raw creativity. Alexander McQueen: The Rebel of British Fashion.
Early Life and Beginnings
Raised in a working-class family in London’s East End, McQueen showed an early interest in fashion, crafting dresses for his sisters as a teenager. His talent was evident, and at the age of 16, he left school to apprentice at Savile Row, a historic hub for bespoke tailoring. During his time at renowned tailoring houses Anderson & Sheppard and later Gieves & Hawkes, McQueen mastered the craft of traditional tailoring.
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His time on Savile Row greatly influenced his design ethos, giving him a foundation of precision and technique that would later contrast with his bold, often anarchic creativity. It was rumoured that McQueen once stitched obscene messages into a jacket intended for Prince Charles, foreshadowing his rebellious streak in fashion.
Education at Central Saint Martins
McQueen’s ambition led him to Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, where he pursued a master’s degree in fashion design. His 1992 graduate collection, titled Jack the Ripper Stalks His Victims, caught the attention of influential fashion stylist Isabella Blow, who purchased the entire collection. Blow became a close friend and mentor, helping to catapult McQueen into the fashion spotlight.
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Alexander McQueen: The Rebel of British Fashion
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The Rise of a Provocative Designer
In 1992, McQueen launched his eponymous label, Alexander McQueen. His early collections gained attention for their daring, controversial themes and provocative silhouettes. Shows like Highland Rape (1995) sparked debates, as McQueen used fashion to explore themes of colonialism, identity, and vulnerability. Critics were divided, but McQueen’s ability to provoke emotion cemented his reputation as a trailblazer.
In 1996, McQueen succeeded John Galliano as the head designer of Givenchy, a prestigious French fashion house. While he initially struggled with the constraints of such a traditional brand, McQueen eventually made his mark, blending his rebellious spirit with the elegance expected of Givenchy.
The Alexander McQueen Brand
By the late 1990s, McQueen’s own label had grown into an international phenomenon. His runway shows were as much theatrical performances as they were fashion presentations, often incorporating elaborate sets and dramatic narratives.
Alexander McQueen: The Rebel of British Fashion
Some of his most iconic collections include:
- Spring/Summer 1999: A mesmerising show where model Shalom Harlow stood on a rotating platform as robotic arms spray-painted her dress live.
- Spring/Summer 2001 (“Voss”): Guests were seated around a mirrored cube, which eventually revealed a model surrounded by moths, symbolising rebirth and transformation.
- Fall/Winter 2006: McQueen’s Widows of Culloden collection featured a hologram of Kate Moss in a billowing gown. It was an unforgettable moment in fashion history.
Awards and Recognition
McQueen’s contributions to fashion earned him numerous accolades. He won British Designer of the Year four times (1996, 1997, 2001, and 2003) and received the CFDA International Designer of the Year Award in 2003.
Legacy and Tragic Loss
Despite his success, McQueen struggled with personal demons, including mental health issues and the loss of his close friend Isabella Blow in 2007. On 11 February 2010, the fashion world was devastated by the news of McQueen’s passing at the age of 40.
In the years following his death, the Alexander McQueen brand has continued to thrive under the creative direction of Sarah Burton, who was McQueen’s right hand for over a decade. Burton upheld McQueen’s legacy, creating iconic pieces such as the wedding gown for Catherine Middleton, now the Princess of Wales, in 2011.
Alexander McQueen: The Rebel of British Fashion
The Enduring Impact of Alexander McQueen
Alexander McQueen’s influence extends far beyond the runway. He redefined the boundaries of fashion, using it as a medium to explore themes of identity, power, and emotion. His daring vision continues to inspire designers and artists around the globe.
To explore more iconic moments in fashion and design, visit What’s Hot in UAE.
Travis Scott x Chase B x Jordan Jumpman: The Next Sneaker Drop Coming Soon
Lifestyle
The Justin Bieber Skylrk Brand: What We Know So Far
If you’ve spent any time scrolling through Instagram recently, chances are you’ve seen Justin Bieber flaunting a mysterious new fashion label, the Justin Bieber Skylrk brand. Welcome to Skylrk—Bieber’s ultra-exclusive, not-yet-launched streetwear brand that’s already captured public attention without releasing a single product.
From cryptic Instagram teases to Coachella sightings and locked websites, Skylrk is Bieber’s bold new foray into fashion post-Drew House. But what exactly is Skylrk, and when will it officially drop? Here’s a full breakdown of everything we know so far.
A Silent Build: The Origins of Skylrk
Trademark documents filed in May 2023 revealed the first signs of Bieber’s next fashion venture. The filings included categories for apparel, footwear, and accessories, all under the name “Skylrk”.
By December 2023, Justin was spotted wearing Skylrk sneakers—distinctive pieces marked by bold soles and neon colours. Slowly, pieces like jersey-style skullcaps, oversized sweats, and candy-toned loungewear followed.
A deep dive into the USPTO database reveals the scope of these filings, which hint at a broad product ecosystem—beyond streetwear, Bieber’s team has also covered eyewear, lifestyle accessories, and even potential future skincare categories.
The Public Divorce From Drew House
In early 2024, Bieber made a dramatic exit from Drew House. On Instagram, he declared:
“I, Justin Bieber, am no longer involved in this brand. Drew House doesn’t represent me or my family or life. If you’re rocking with me, the human Justin Bieber, don’t waste your money on Drew House.”
In an animated video clip released in April, Bieber’s cartoon avatar walked through a ruined Drew House residence, ignited a fire with a box of Skylrk matches, and walked away. This visual metaphor marked a significant departure and served as Skylrk’s first unofficial promo.
The emotional break from long-time collaborator Ryan Good, who was once Bieber’s best man, underscores the personal reinvention behind Skylrk. This isn’t just another fashion brand—this is Bieber’s reset.
Meet the Skylrk Team
The brand is powered by a tight-knit team:
- Finn Rush-Taylor: A 28-year-old Scottish designer with past projects at Adidas, Puma, and Crocs. His specialty? 3D-modelling futuristic footwear.
- Neima Khaila: Known for co-founding Pink Dolphin, Khaila brings LA streetwear credibility and a decade of brand-building experience.
- Hailey Bieber: Justin’s wife is playing muse and collaborator. She’s teased several Skylrk jackets on Instagram and even holds the patent for one of the brand’s phone case designs.
Justin is said to have full creative control, blending music, fashion, and personal storytelling into the brand’s identity.
Skylrk’s Aesthetic: Playful, Bold, and Sculptural
The Skylrk style revolves around exaggerated, futuristic comfort:
- Oversized sweatsuits in pastel and earth tones
- Puffy belted robes and sculptural slides
- Futuristic sunglasses in “Wax” and “Dusty Pink”
- Bulbous phone cases with function-driven design
- Basketball uniforms and even loungewear for children
Unlike Drew House’s smiley-lounge vibe, Skylrk leans into a conceptual design approach. The footwear echoes biomorphic trends seen in high fashion, suggesting a bridge between luxury streetwear and wearable art.
A New Instagram Era, Without the Posts
Despite launching an official Skylrk Instagram profile (now boasting over 500K followers), the feed remains empty. Not one post. Meanwhile, Justin’s own Instagram serves as the unofficial lookbook—often captioned cryptically or with inside jokes, giving fans breadcrumbs to obsess over.
Hailey has also modelled several looks, making Skylrk feel like a natural progression of the couple’s creative synergy. This strategy taps into scarcity psychology—create intrigue, not instant gratification.
The Justin Bieber Skylrk brand Trademark Delays and Teases
Trademark filings were extended again in November 2024, with statement-of-use deadlines pushed. Behind the scenes, Khaila and Bieber’s team continue to refine the product line.
“We been calibrating for like 3 years,” Khaila wrote. “They not ready bro.”
Justin also teased golf gear and more loungewear in June. Each teaser comes with heightened speculation—but no official launch date. The password-protected website remains locked.
Meaning Behind the Name “Skylrk”
The word has multiple meanings:
- A “skylark” is a bird singing in flight— a metaphor for Bieber’s own artistic freedom.
- Nautically, “to skylark” means to play or frolic, often in high places. A nod to fun and elevation?
- There’s also a pop culture twist—Chip Skylark, the cartoon pop star from The Fairly OddParents, voiced by NSYNC’s Chris Kirkpatrick. Bieber, born in 1994, almost certainly grew up watching it.
Even more intriguing, in 2018 Bieber posted a photo captioned: “Meet SKYLARK TYLARK (my alter ego).” Seven years later, that alter ego might just be coming to life.
Competitive Landscape: How Skylrk Stands Apart
Unlike many celebrity fashion brands that rely solely on hype, Skylrk’s minimalist marketing approach has ironically amplified its visibility. By focusing on elevated materials, speculative tech-driven design, and narrative clarity, Skylrk is positioning itself alongside cult luxury labels, not fast fashion.
Compared to Ye’s YEEZY, Rihanna’s FENTY, or Pharrell’s Humanrace, Skylrk differentiates through its humour, visual mystery, and slow-burn approach. It feels more like a statement than a store.
For the UAE’s fashion-forward crowd, Skylrk could slot perfectly alongside a rising appetite for limited-edition luxury, wearable storytelling, and a celebrity-led vision that doesn’t feel mass-produced.
Final Drop: What We Expect Next
At this point, Skylrk has followed a rare path: no products, no posts, yet complete brand awareness. It’s a case study in celebrity-driven anticipation.
What to look out for:
- Removal of the password gate from the website
- First official Instagram posts
- Press kits or exclusive capsule drops
- Skylrk pieces at key events or festivals
- Potential UAE influencer sightings and launch activations
It’s not a matter of if Skylrk will launch, but when. And when it does, expect a frenzy.
Lifestyle
Official Images Of The Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’
The official images of the Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ have just surfaced, setting off excitement in sneaker circles around the world. Slated for release on 5 July 2025, this clean white silhouette completes a full-circle moment for Jordan Brand, coming right after the reissue of its darker sibling—the ‘Black Cat’. JD Sports has revealed a crystal-clear view of the sneaker, confirming that this updated version remains as true to the 2007 original as ever.
An Air Jordan Legacy in White: Back to 2007
The Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ was first introduced in 2007 as part of a duo pack alongside the ‘Black Cat’ edition. At the time, Jordan Brand was beginning to push beyond OG colorways, experimenting with styles that leaned into minimalism. ‘Pure Money’ was a standout—an all-white, tumbled leather masterpiece with subtle silver accents and a premium feel. In 2025, the retro version is staying loyal to that vision with its elegant features.
Crafted in crisp white leather with metallic silver upper eyelets and Jumpman logos in cool grey, this sneaker radiates understated elegance. The elephant print overlays on the toe and heel are slightly toned with a warm, off-white tint—distinguishable only to the trained eye and a nuanced evolution from the original release.
Hidden Details, Maximum Impact
One of the best easter eggs for true fans is the return of the ‘Pure $’ embroidery hidden behind the heel tabs, honoring the Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ legacy. This signature detail pays homage to the original and solidifies the retro’s credibility among collectors. Jordan Brand has also included an extra set of patterned elephant print laces to switch up the look without sacrificing cohesion.
These details may be minor, but they matter. In a market flooded with loud, collab-heavy releases, the Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ is a calm, confident callback to the golden era of retros.
A Perfect Summer Drop
Dropping in July is no coincidence. With its breathable leather upper and tonal white profile, the Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ is a summer essential and a perfect addition to any wardrobe. It works with everything—denim, joggers, shorts—and adapts easily from streetwear to smart casual.
This drop also coincides with the reissue of the ‘Black Cat’, completing the story arc from 2007. In contrast to its stealthy twin, ‘Pure Money’ is bright, clean, and unapologetically premium.
Family Sizes and UAE Availability
Full family sizing is confirmed: men’s, grade school, preschool, and toddlers. Adult pairs will retail for $210 (approx. AED 770). UAE sneakerheads can expect availability via Nike SNKRS, JD Sports UAE, Foot Locker Middle East, and select boutiques in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Raffles are expected to open early July for the much-awaited Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ drop.
This inclusive sizing ensures Jordan Brand’s appeal cuts across generations, echoing the global reach the Jumpman has cultivated since the 80s.
Subtle Power in a Loud World
The ‘Pure Money’ retro doesn’t scream for attention—and that’s precisely its charm. In an era dominated by visual overload, this release embraces clean design and careful craftsmanship, maintaining the legacy of Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’. The warm-tinted elephant overlays, the heritage branding, and the use of luxurious leather all serve to elevate this sneaker beyond its simple colorway.
It’s a modern minimalist’s dream and a purist’s trophy. It appeals to those who want history underfoot without being flashy about it.
Comparing With the Air Jordan ‘Black Cat’
Released earlier this year, the ‘Black Cat’ offered an opposite aesthetic: all-black, stealthy, and moody. ‘Pure Money’ brings balance. Where ‘Black Cat’ is evening wear, ‘Pure Money’ is midday shine. Both complete the thematic pack, but ‘Pure Money’ delivers wider versatility, making it arguably more wearable on a day-to-day basis.
From a quality standpoint, the white version might even surpass its sibling. The texture of the leather, the stitching finesse, and the iconic branding all feel thoughtfully executed.
A Cultural Reset
What the Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ really represents is a cultural pause. A moment to remember what made sneaker culture matter. Before the bots, before resale madness—there were shoes like the Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ that simply looked good, felt premium, and told a story. This drop harks back to those days.
And yet, it isn’t stuck in the past. The 2025 update honors the legacy while refining just enough to make it fresh. It’s for the seasoned sneakerhead and the newcomer alike. For the collector and the casual fan.
UAE Sneaker Culture: Why It Fits
In the UAE, where clean silhouettes and high-end fashion cross paths every day, the Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ fits perfectly. The climate supports light tones, and the streetwear scene continues to evolve. This release will undoubtedly resonate with both the fashion-forward and the culturally rooted.
Whether you’re in Dubai’s Design District or downtown Abu Dhabi, this shoe makes sense. It’s functional, premium, and limited enough to spark conversation.
The Air Jordan Legacy Lives On
The Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ isn’t just another retro. It’s a declaration. That Jordan Brand still remembers its roots. That minimalism still matters. That sometimes, the loudest thing you can wear is nothing loud at all.
Set for release on 5 July, this sneaker isn’t just about style. It’s about story, balance, and cultural heritage—the essence of Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’. It may come wrapped in white leather, but it carries the weight of history.
Lifestyle
Meet Balenciaga’s New Crative Director, Pierpaolo Piccioli
Balenciaga, one of the most talked-about names in fashion, has made a headline-grabbing move in July 2025 by appointing Pierpaolo Piccioli as Balenciaga’s new creative director. This appointment of Balenciaga’s new creative director takes place with immediate effect from 10 July, Piccioli takes over following Demna’s exit and shift to creative leadership at Gucci, marking a watershed moment in Kering’s brand recalibration. Balenciaga’s new creative director appointment sets the stage for one of the boldest creative transitions in fashion’s recent history.
👔 Who is Pierpaolo Piccioli?
Piccioli, a native of Nettuno, Italy, is best known for reshaping Valentino during his 25-year tenure. Originally co-creative director with Maria Grazia Chiuri (now at Dior), he led the maison solo from 2016 until his departure in 2024. His legacy is defined by:
- Architectural haute couture silhouettes
- Bold colour blocking and monochrome experiments
- Red-carpet dominance with celebrities like Florence Pugh, Zendaya, and Anne Hathaway
- Critical acclaim for presentations in Paris, Rome, Venice, and Beijing
At Valentino, Piccioli boosted brand visibility during post-pandemic luxury booms and reconnected younger audiences to couture, particularly via social media virality and red-carpet symbolism.
📊 Fashion Industry Context: 2025’s Creative Shakeup
Piccioli’s appointment isn’t happening in isolation. The year 2025 has been a turning point:
Brand | New Creative Director | Previous Director | Shift Summary |
---|---|---|---|
Gucci | Demna (ex-Balenciaga) | Sabato De Sarno | Streetwear revival |
Dior | Peter Do (rumoured) | Maria Grazia Chiuri | Modern tailoring focus |
Chanel | Virginie Viard exits | TBC | Classicism under review |
Valentino | Alessandro Michele | Piccioli | Boho meets glamour |
Kering’s reshuffle at Balenciaga, Gucci, and Bottega Veneta reflects its goal to reposition brands amid slowed growth, rising Gen Z influence, and high demand for both authenticity and exclusivity.
🧵 Why Balenciaga Chose Piccioli: Couture Meets Commerce
Kering’s official statement praised Piccioli as “a master of haute couture” with “a unique creative vision.” Yet the decision signals deeper intentions:
- Aesthetic Reset: Moving away from Demna’s memeable, dystopian branding toward beauty, elegance, and heritage
- Elevating Brand Equity: Couture excellence and fashion art matter more in a maturing market
- Expanding Client Base: Attracting older and more traditional high-net-worth clients alongside progressive luxury consumers
Demna’s version of Balenciaga brought viral moments and rapid merch sales, but luxury’s top end has shifted. Clients are prioritising emotional connection, timeless silhouettes, and authenticity.
🎭 What Will Piccioli’s Balenciaga Look Like?
Piccioli is expected to show his first collection in October 2025. Whether it’s a full runway debut or a softer reveal remains to be seen. His potential strengths for Balenciaga include:
- Reactivating Cristóbal Balenciaga’s archival DNA (volume, geometry, restraint)
- Redefining ready-to-wear as wearable art
- High fashion with humanistic undertones
- Rebuilding accessories with longevity (a Piccioli weak spot at Valentino)
The real challenge: merging his romanticism with Balenciaga’s streetwear heritage, without alienating either camp.
👜 Balenciaga vs. Valentino: Performance Comparison (Pre-2025)
Metric | Valentino (under Piccioli) | Balenciaga (under Demna) |
Peak Annual Revenue | ~€1.4 billion (2022) | ~€2.1 billion (2022) |
Social Media Followers (IG) | 18 million | 14 million |
Couture Focus | High | Relaunched (2021) |
Accessories Share | Low to Moderate | High (Sneakers + Bags) |
Valentino under Piccioli leaned heavily into couture, celebrity dressing, and emotion-led campaigns. By contrast, Balenciaga has been commercial, fast-paced, and often polarising.
🧠 Couture Meets Culture: The Social Impact of Piccioli’s Work
Piccioli’s couture was among the most celebrated of the last decade. It was inclusive, casting diverse models and challenging narrow beauty norms. He frequently referenced:
- Feminist narratives
- Renaissance and religious art
- Gender-neutral silhouettes
- Poetic storytelling over spectacle
This philosophical backbone may inject intellectual credibility into Balenciaga’s next era—crucial for engaging critics, curators, and high-value collectors.
🔮 What This Means for Kering and the Fashion World
Kering’s stock is likely to see long-term impact from this directional move. Balenciaga, one of its crown jewels, must now:
- Grow haute couture revenue
- Rebuild mid-tier product trust (after controversy backlash)
- Compete with LVMH’s Dior and Chanel on cultural capital
This appointment signals that Kering is investing in timeless luxury rather than trending virality—a pivot that mirrors macro-luxury trends post-2023.
“Piccioli is one of the most talented and celebrated designers of today… His mastery of haute couture and passion for savoir-faire made him the ideal choice for the house.” – Francesca Bellettini, Deputy CEO of Kering
Final Word: A New Future for Balenciaga
This is more than a leadership shuffle—it’s a transformation. With Pierpaolo Piccioli, Balenciaga is embracing fashion as art again, focusing on storytelling, structure, and sustainability.
Kering’s long-term strategy now hinges on whether the couture purist can make beauty, not noise, the new business model for 21st-century luxury.
Stay ahead of fashion’s next evolution right here.
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