Kate Moss's Cigarette Burns Boost Value of Alexander McQueen's Gucci Suit at Auction
In most cases, cigarette burns would significantly diminish the value of auction items, but when those burns are inflicted by supermodel and smoker Kate Moss, the story changes dramatically. This is precisely the situation with a white Gucci suit worn by the late designer Alexander McQueen, which is now heading to auction with an estimated price of £3,000. Auctioneers at Kerry Taylor, who are managing the sale of McQueen's estate, assert that the damage has actually increased the item's appeal to collectors, turning imperfections into prized historical markers.
The Historical Significance of the Suit
Alexander McQueen, who tragically passed away at the age of 40 in 2010, first donned this suit at the prestigious New York Fashion Awards in 2003, often referred to as the 'Fashion Oscars,' where he was honoured as International Designer of the Year. A spokesperson for the auction house revealed that McQueen was later spotted wearing the Tom Ford-designed suit again at his Pantheon Ad Lucem show in Paris in 2004. The suit, while showing signs of wear, carries a rich narrative as a well-loved piece from McQueen's iconic career.
Imperfections That Tell a Story
According to the auction house spokesman, 'While the ensemble shows some signs of wear, these imperfections are part of its narrative as a well-loved piece.' Specifically, the holes on the left sleeve were created by Kate Moss's cigarette during a backstage moment at the Pantheon Ad Lucem show, where McQueen was photographed standing with the supermodel. Alex Baddeley, head of menswear at Kerry Taylor, elaborated that the suit's condition 'gives us more of an insight into his life, partying and collecting awards,' highlighting how such details offer a glimpse into McQueen's vibrant personal and professional world.
The Friendship Between McQueen and Moss
Kate Moss, now 52, shared a close friendship with Alexander McQueen, with both rising to prominence in the fashion industry during the early 1990s in London. Their bond was famously showcased in McQueen's 2006 show, Widows Of Culloden, where Moss appeared as a ghostly hologram enveloped in layers of white organza. This deep connection adds another layer of significance to the suit, making it not just a garment but a tangible piece of fashion history that encapsulates the era and the personalities involved.
The auction of this Gucci suit underscores how in the world of high fashion, provenance and personal stories can transform ordinary wear into extraordinary collectibles. With cigarette burns from Kate Moss elevating its value, this item serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Alexander McQueen and the iconic moments he shared with fellow fashion luminaries.
