Alexander McQueen.

During tonight's episode of 'Project Runway,' Michael Kors referred to a dress designed by Alexander McQueen. Curious about the reference, I quickly flipped open my laptop and was able to pull up the designer's winter collection in seconds (thanks to the world wide web and Google.) After locating the dress mentioned, I stumbled upon a video of the catwalk show. It was unfamiliar territory, but extremely fascinating. The runway set-up was unusual - centered around an ornate, billowing, white fabric tree illuminated by faint blue lights in which the models strutted around - instead of the expected straight and narrow walkway. Jarring, dramatic instrumental music flitted through the background, creating an intense somberness. It was only fitting that the first models arrived, clad in sleek, black outfits and grand, arresting updo's. As the music transitioned into an exotic Indian chant, the collection faded into subtle grey plaid patterns. Then the blue lights changed to an amber yellow, the music sped into upbeat classical vibrations of a singing string orchestra and the collection was suddenly exotic. The outfits were light, airy and obviously inspired by ancient, classical Asia and Eastern Europe, embroidered with flowery details and trimmed with jewels. I've never watched a runway show before but I feel safe saying that McQueen successfully stepped out of the box with this collection, taking the runway to new dramatic heights and creating an ethnic assemblage of original designs.

http://www.alexandermcqueen.com/us/en/shop/womenswear/autumn-winter-08/catwalkvideo-aw08.aspx