Although legendary designer Alexander McQueen, who tragically passed away in February 2010, is no longer with us, his visionary artistry continues to inspire. His final creations, including the striking camouflage “Skull Rose” boots, were recently released to the public, showcasing the timeless brilliance of his work.
Alexander McQueen believed, ‘It’s good to know where you come from. It makes you what you are today. It’s DNA, it’s in your blood.’ His Skull Rose boots, with their striking design, are a testament to his deep connection to his heritage and his ability to channel it into his art.
Alexander McQueen Skull Rose Boots, $1,169
Queen Latifah wore this style to the “Just Wright” premiere in New York. She paired the boots with a comfortable-looking shirt dress, a thick brown belt, and gold earrings:
Queen Latifah brought her signature style to the red carpet at the premiere of Just Wright on May 4, 2010, at the Ziegfeld Theater in New York City, pairing a chic belted shirtdress with daring Alexander McQueen ‘Skull Rose’ boots that made a bold fashion statement (Credit: Andres Otero / WENN)
From a distance, the intricate print on these boots gives off an almost “alienistic” vibe. However, upon closer inspection, the pattern reveals itself as a striking interplay of skulls and roses—a hallmark of McQueen’s darkly romantic aesthetic.
As McQueen put it, ‘Clothes and jewellery should be startling, individual. When you see a woman in my clothes, you want to know more about them.’ With their hauntingly beautiful motif, these boots embody this ethos, sparking curiosity and admiration.
While these may appear to be standard clip-toe booties at first glance, they are anything but ordinary. The bold design is accentuated by a 7-inch shaft and a high, wide fold-over collar, making them a daring statement piece. The combination of the busy print and unique silhouette creates a pair of shoes that demand confidence and styling finesse.
Queen Latifah added a bold touch to her look with Alexander McQueen’s statement-making ‘Skull Rose’ boots, featuring a camouflage-inspired print of skulls and roses, fold-over collars, and peep-toes that showcased her vibrant blue pedicure
To balance their dramatic flair, consider pairing these boots with minimalist, tailored outfits that allow the footwear to command attention. Opt for short hemlines or sleek silhouettes to ensure the bold design remains the focal point. For instance, a classic black shift dress or a neutral-toned romper can create a clean canvas that highlights the intricate skull-and-rose motif.
Add subtle accessories—such as a simple clutch or understated jewelry—to maintain a cohesive look without overpowering the boots. Keeping your ensemble simple ensures that the artistry of these statement shoes truly shines.
McQueen envisioned his designs as empowering statements, saying, ‘I want to empower women. I want people to be afraid of the women I dress.’ Pairing these boots with clean, understated pieces lets their boldness shine, reflecting the unapologetic confidence he celebrated.
Stepping Out in Style: Iconic Alexander McQueen Footwear Moments
Alexander McQueen’s innovative designs have graced numerous red carpets, with celebrities showcasing his unique footwear creations:
- Hunter Schafer: At the Los Angeles premiere of ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,’ Hunter stunned in a slashed gunmetal tulle dress paired with crystal-embellished Alexander McQueen pin-heel boots, epitomizing avant-garde elegance.
- Kate Middleton: During the Royal Family Christmas service, the Princess of Wales exuded timeless elegance in a green Alexander McQueen coat, complemented by bespoke Gianvito Rossi knee-high boots, showcasing her sophisticated style.
- Cate Blanchett: At the Los Angeles premiere of ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,’ Cate dazzled in a sparkling gold Alexander McQueen dress paired with nude Roger Vivier peep-toe sandals, highlighting her red carpet glamour.
- Marsai Martin: At the 2018 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, Marsai charmed in a floral Alexander McQueen dress paired with Loriblu ankle-strap sandals, blending youthful elegance with high fashion.
McQueen’s designs, including the Skull Rose boots, continue to inspire the world of fashion. He once declared, ‘When I’m dead and gone, people will know that the twenty-first century was started by Alexander McQueen,’ a statement that resonates through his timeless creations.