This rare Alexander McQueen Spring Summer 2004 two piece patchwork skirt and jacket suit is a great example of Lee McQueen's impeccable attention to detail and fine tailoring. This unique ensemble is from McQueen's "Deliverance" runway show, which was based on iconic dance marathon scenes from the 1969 Sydney Pollack film "They Shoot Horses Don't They." The movie takes place in the 1930's during the Great Depression. Contestants participate in a dance marathon in hopes of winning a $1,500 cash prize. The competition drags on from days to weeks and people go from being full of energy and pep to dragging on the floor until they eventually drop out or expire. As only he could, Mcqueen redefined these historic movie scenes with modern fashion brilliantly.
This fitted suit is intricately made with hand stitched patchwork pieces that include men's shirting and a mix of polished and matte cottons. This was done just as it would have been during the depression, when people were forced to use only the materials available to them. It's very rare to find both pieces of the suit together, so we were thrilled to find this complete outfit.
We love the outstanding details including the design of the patches, intentional loose threads, small front slash pockets, unfinished button holes with buttons, and the raw hems on both pieces. The skirt has a mermaid style flared hem, closes with side zipper and has a built in slip. The jacket is fully lined and has a gathered back and elbow patches. The mixed fabric patches include checks, and stripes in shades of cream, taupe burgundy and Grey and the background fabric is a tonal cream.
Made in Italy of 100% cotton and labeled a size 40. This is an outfit that we keep discovering more and more details the more we look at it. If you are a fan of vintage Alexander Mcqueen pieces, this would be a fabulous edition to your collection.
We estimate this to fit a modern day US size 2/4. Please refer to the measurements as a guide.
CONDITION: Excellent
Skirt-
LENGTH: 29"
WAIST: (low waist) 30"
HIPS: 36"
Jacket-
SHOULDERS: 16"
WAIST: 26"
BUST: 34"
SLEEVES: 22"
LENGTH: 23"
