Alexander McQueen Fall 2011 Collection

Ice, ice baby.

Titled "The Ice Queen and her Court,” the latest McQueen collection from Sarah Burton wallowed in some of the references McQueen himself was known for - wild fantasy coupled with a sort of European regalism - while managing not to look like it was treading paths already trodden. The figure of the Ice Queen is a mix of purity (all the white) and power (harnesses, leather, lace zippers, metal) and one might read in that if not a more feminist point of view, than at least a more female-centered one than McQueen himself might have been capable of. We love the amazing work; the intricate details and craftsmanship, the zippers; the broken china fired together to look like fragments of heraldic plates; the strong silhouettes, and the overall sense of fantasy opulence. A rich, exotic collection in the McQueen manner without being derivative.

Now. Which one should Kate wear to the wedding? Oh, we know they said she wasn't going to wear McQueen, but as long as we're in the realm of fantasy, what dress would you recommend for the future Queen of England on her wedding day? We're thinking anything with a harness is right out.