Alexander McQueen x The Rug Company: ‘Metamorphosis’

In collaboration with The Rug Company, the high-end British fashion house, Alexander McQueen, is back with an exclusive collection, introducing five brand new intricate designs. This time, the collection portrays the wonderful transfiguration cycles of nature, and therefore, we have the title ‘Metamorphosis’. Woven by none other than The Rug Company’s skilled craftsmen in Nepal, all the rugs are created with the finest Tibetan wool and silk.

On this merge between two completely different worlds, Sarah Burton, the creative director of Alexander McQueen, said, “I am delighted to be part of this collaboration which represents the shared values of a love of nature and respect for tradition, handcraft and innovation.”

If you’re unaware of the longstanding relationship between the prestigious brands – each a leader in their own field – their first collaboration was actually in 2010. The latest collection marks the fifth collaboration, following the triumph of the 2013 collection inspired by folklore, which was also curated under the creative direction of Sarah Burton. There is a reason the Rug Company would opt for such an idea; widely known for unmatched creativity and an evident passion for storytelling, Alexander McQueen is the epitome of avant-garde design, balanced with a regard for traditional craftsmanship.

Needless to say, the latest collection maintains such core values, while embodying the brand’s iconic aesthetic. Inspired by themes of rebirth, revival and renewal, ‘Metamorphosis’ features the Tree of Life, Painted Lady, Glasswings, Beetle and Crown Blossom. Handcrafted completely in silk, Glasswings features a pair of intricate butterfly wings, coming to life in light-greenish hues along with shimmery tones of silver and mimal accents of gold.

With amazing attention to detail, Beetle offers a modern, abstract image of an elytron, which happens to be a signature motif for the house of McQueen. It is handwoven with wool and silk, emphasizing bold monochrome shades with orange markings. Crown Blossom exhibits two celestial cranes, united in a swirl of feathers. While the base of the rug is made with soft wool, it is complemented with graceful silk cherry blossom to frame the central motif.

A striking, vibrant design, Painted Lady tells the story of a flying butterfly, paying tribute to previous rug designs, Monarch Fire and Monarch Smoke, by Lee Alexander McQueen. Made with wool and silk, a beautiful visual depth is presented by rich red tones, combined with the shine of silk. Finally, the Tree of Life is a symbol recognized worldwide to resemble growth and spiritual development. It depicts the mirrored effect of roots and leaves, and is inspired by the Celtic tradition of Clootie trees and the Cornish Tregellas Tapestries.