Alexander McQueen designed the 2005 collection 'It's Only A Game' around the idea of a chess match between America and Japan. Each ensemble corresponded to a particular chess piece. Vogue said of it; "The presentation summed up all his experience in sharp tailoring, spectacular romantic dresses, couture richness, and downright showmanship." and that it had a "girlish Edwardian theme, starting with tiny sailor jackets, school blazers, ticking-striped shirts, and gray knee-length shorts, then adding lovely white lace blouses and dresses". The twin of this set was presented on the runway that day for Look 8. This show is often referred to as one of his most iconic presentations.
The set is incredible and an important piece of the Alexander McQueen history. It is instantly recognizable and from one of the most important collections. It is a work of art and the fabric alone is astounding. It is made from a fine, light silk that n person is perhaps a touch more on the taupe side then how it photoed here. Into that silk are very fine embroidery that forms the design that you see running over the jacket and the skirt. The skirt is pleated and the pleats close around the hip and then open to give it the volume that you see. The fabric is very light but the way that it has been sewn and pieces together give it the volume and shape you see without needing any interior skirting. I particularly love the fine notched scalloped edging around the hem. The jacket is equally incredible. The lace top you see peaking out from under the jacket is actually attached and part of the jacket. The tailoring is masterful and shows his mastery of line. It has a Edwardian/Victorian flare to it with its row of carved mother of pearl buttons that run down each side of he jacket and little flap pockets on each hip. The attached top underneath is a fine lace and feels the equivalent to a fine antique lace. I love how this buttons al the way up to a high neck and how the ruffles around the neck are the same as those on each sleeve that peak out. The little grosgrain band that extends out from the interior of the jacket is the perfect finish. This is an incredible piece of Alexander McQueen history. Excellent condition
The jacket is lined in a textured striped cotton suiting lining and the edges of the interior with a silk grosgrain fabric. It closes with the buttons down the front. The skirt is unlined and closes with a side zipper. Both pieces are tagged a size 44. It looks to have never been worn or worn very little.
Jacket
Sleeves: 25" to end of lace sleeve
Shoulders: 15"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 15.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 19" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 22" from neck to hem
Skirt
Waist: 13.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: open
Length: 27" from waist to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD3369
Reference Photos: (1) Spring 2005 Alexander McQueen Runway Collection, Look 8. Model: Dawning Han. / (2) Alexander McQueen suit on display at the "Lee Alexander McQueen & Ann Ray: Rendez-vouz" exhibit at the Crocker Museum in Sacramento, 2023.
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.
