After months of speculation that Alexander McQueen could not live on without creator and chief designer Lee McQueen after his passing in February this year, the fashion group Gucci has appointed Sarah Burton as creative director.

Burton has been the late designer’s right hand woman, and at the time of McQueen’s death, led a design team of five who were then able to complete the only 80% finished autumn/winter 2010-11 collection in time for its showing at Paris Fashion Week.

The collection went on to receive critical acclaim for her interpretation and deep understanding of McQueen’s vision, and Burton’s appointment came as no surprise. “The creation of modern beautifully crafted clothes was at the heart of Lee’s vision. I intend to stay true to his legacy,” she said.

Burton, 35, joined Alexander McQueen in 1996, just a year before her graduation from London’s Central St. Martins College of Art and in 2000, was named head of womenswear design.

When the Gucci Group announced plans to continue the label after McQueen’s passing earlier this year, much of the industry were unsure of the stability of the labels future. Rumours began circulating about who would replace the legendary designer, with Gareth Pugh often cited as the top candidate.

Many believed that the label should have been laid to rest, as a sign of respect for Lee and his great contribution to the international fashion industry. After nearly 16 years with McQueen and her unimaginable success of the AW 10 collection, it is believed that Burton will help strengthen the future of the company and allow it to continue in the aesthetic that Lee would have wished for.

Jonathan Akeroyd, the Alexander McQueen chief executive, praised Burton’s talent and publically welcomed her as new creative director.

“We are delighted that Sarah has agreed to take on the role of creative director. Having worked alongside Lee McQueen for more than 14 years, she has a deep understanding of his vision, which will allow the company to stay true to its core values. We are ready to enter a new phase in the brand’s history,” Akeroyd said.

So what’s the next move for the team at Alexander McQueen? The label plans to launch a men’s underwear collection under license to Italy’s Albisetti SpA next month.

And with no confirmation of when Burton’s debut is expected, all we can do is wait, and hope, for a collection that continues Lee McQueen’s brilliant legacy.

Words: Leni Andronicos