Seán McGirr Unleashes Banshee-Inspired Collection for Alexander McQueen at Paris Fashion Week
On Saturday evening, the fashion world was captivated by Seán McGirr’s sophomore collection for Alexander McQueen at the prestigious Paris École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts. The Irish designer, known for his bold and visionary designs, collaborated with artist Tom Scott to create a tense and immersive installation for his Spring 2025 collection.
The Banshee: A Personal Inspiration for McGirr
McGirr drew inspiration from the banshee, a mythical spirit deeply rooted in the history of McQueen. But for the designer, the banshee also holds a personal significance, as he grew up hearing stories of the spirit’s solitary cries from his mother. “For me, she has come to represent something real and potent now,” McGirr shared.
A Grand Fashion Manifesto
Set to a soundtrack of British artists from different decades and genres, McGirr’s collection was a grand fashion manifesto. The line featured tailored subversions of the classic British suit, hand-stitched cobweb lace details, and exaggerated shoulders. Jermyn Street shirting was given a twist with cursive collars, while mohair silhouettes from British mills added texture to the collection.
Hand-Treated Silks and Intricate Embroidery
McGirr’s attention to detail was evident in his use of hand-treated silks, including jacquard-woven washed silk organza and silk creponne in muted tones. These luxurious fabrics were used to create shining eveningwear, with royal lapels on blazers and form-flattering torsos on fluffy dresses. The collection also featured intricate embroidery, with original banshee artwork reimagined in silver metal sequins, silver bullion, and 3D gold metal detailing on organza.
The Banshee Personified
The collection’s final look was a show-stopping crystal-covered creature, representing the banshee personified. McGirr sees this as an allegorical “guiding force” for the future of Alexander McQueen under his direction.
Experience the Collection
Take a look at Alexander McQueen’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection in the gallery above, and stay tuned to Hypebeast for more coverage of Paris Fashion Week. This banshee-inspired collection is a testament to McGirr’s talent and vision, and we can’t wait to see what he has in store for the future of Alexander McQueen.
