Alexander McQueen began his career with apprenticeships at traditional Savile Row tailors Anderson and Shephard and then moved to Gieves and Hawkes, both masters in the technical construction of garments. From there he moved to the theatrical costumiers Angels and Bermans, where he mastered different methods of pattern cutting, including traditional techniques from the 16th century.

It is this mix of expert tailoring, historical influence and contemporary vision that has made Mcqueen one of the most famous and respected international fashion designers in the world. For Spring,  McQueen's use of colour was startling - into a landscape of army khaki and sand tones, he threw sudden shocks of acid yellow or hot pink.

Military coat £850, voile top £170 and jeans £150.