Sarah Burton is stepping down as Artistic Director of Alexander McQueen after 26 years, 14 of which she spent as Creative Director. Her departure marks the end of an era, and raises questions about the future of this legendary British fashion house at the start of London Fashion Week.

Owned by the Kering Group since 2001, the British label had been run by the designer for a decade. Sarah Burton joined the label as an intern in 1996, following in Alexander McQueen’s footsteps until she became artistic director on his death in 2010. While infusing her own vision, she maintained the legacy of the brand’s talented founder by reinterpreting his codes.