When someone you admire, but have never met, passes away, what are you supposed to feel?

* one of my favorite designs/overall collection, from anyone, ever.

I was /am profoundly sad to learn that Alexander McQueen passed away. That sadness is heightened by the knowledge that his death was not the result of an accident or medical anomaly but rather of suicide. There have been several people in my life who have died from suicide and each loss shook me to the core. Those who are left behind will always have questions and will always wonder – what if? I never had the privilege of meeting Alexander McQueen but as an admirer, I too am left wondering. My heart aches for his family and friends but also for his legions of followers.

If the twitter trending topics can teach us something it is that McQueen was loved greatly by his fans. To many of us, he was the ultimate artist/dreamer/creator/guide/inspiration. It pains me to know that he took his own life – that he, who inspired such hope in me, was troubled enough to make that choice. Again, I think of his family and friends. I don’t know what else to say really, other than that this is a tragedy. Today, the world lost a brilliant mind and fashion lost one of its best innovators. Rest in peace.

Photo via ShopBop