Alexander McQueen Fashion House Names New Director

By: Devon Thomas
Topics: News

Alexander McQueen on Feb. 11, 2010. (AP Photo/Danny Moloshok)

NEW YORK (CBS/AP) His fashions are in the stylish wardrobes of today's brightest stars from Lady Gaga in "Bad Romance" to Sarah Jessica Parker.

Now, the house of late British fashion icon Alexander McQueen has named Sarah Burton, a longtime colleague of the designer, to be the new creative director of the brand.

PICTURES: Alexander McQueen : 1969-2010
PICTURES: Alexander McQueen's Fashions

In a statement from London released Thursday, Burton said she intends "to stay true to his legacy'' by turning out "modern beautifully crafted clothes.''

McQueen was hailed as a creative genius in the fashion world. He committed suicide in his London apartment in February. He was 40-years-old.

Burton joined McQueen's company in 1996, a year before graduating Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. She most recently served as head of design for womenswear.

Parent company Gucci Group said that because Burton worked so closely with McQueen she has "the vision necessary to take it forward.''

Burton will oversee women's and men's apparel as well as accessories.