Alexander McQueen Fall 2006 "The Widows of Culloden" Skirt

Alexander McQueen’s Fall 2006 Widows of Culloden collection stands among his most powerful and emotionally charged works, remembered for its haunting hologram of Kate Moss, avian feathered headpieces, and deeply personal meditation on Scottish identity and loss. Vogue would later describe it as “one of fashion’s all-time highs.”

Amid the theatrical spectacle, the caramel-brown herringbone pieces formed a crucial foundation. Rooted in traditional Highland dress, McQueen used the robust wool tailoring to anchor the collection’s more ethereal elements, demonstrating his unmatched ability to fuse history, craftsmanship, and narrative. Appearing in six runway looks, the herringbone became a tactile through-line, its earthy weight offering a counterbalance to the ghostly fragility of the hologram finale.

This particular skirt appeared as look 15, worn by Daria Werbowy at the height of her runway dominance. Styled with a feather-covered high-neck top, cable-knit tights, and dramatic winged headpiece, the look perfectly encapsulated McQueen’s romantic, mournful vision.

Watch this piece on the runway from 1:44 here.

The skirt is tailored with wing-like gentle pleating on the rear left hand side so that it flicks out behind the wearer as they walk. This detail can be seen in the runway image; what appears to be the tails of a coat is in fact the avant-garde cut of the skirt, adding the feeling of movement, or taking flight. The skirt is high waisted and fastens at the rear with a hidden tonal zip and hook-and-eye. It is lined in brown satin.

• Alexander McQueen Fall 2006 • “Widows of Culloden” collection • High-waist skirt • Herringbone wool • Asymmetric rear pleating • Lined in brown satin • Made in Italy

Fabric: 100% Wool
Lining: 85% Cupro, 15% Viscose
Size on Label: Italian size 42, UK 10, US 6
Stretch: No
Care: Dry clean only
Condition: Excellent

Length: 65 cm (25.5 inch)
Waist: 66 cm (26 inch)
Hips: 91.5 cm (36 inch)