Taking up where Alexander McQueen left off is no easy task. But Sarah Burton, who worked with the designer for 15 years, was the most likely candidate for carrying on the line. Her debut collection didn't stray too far from the path her predecessor had already carved. All the elements of a McQueen presentation were there: the matted, braided hair, the exaggerated silhouettes, the familiar blend of futurism and fantasia. At the same time, she countered the brand's signature severity with a touch of softness in the form of delicately frayed hems, transparent organza, and a plethora of ruffles. Bell-shaped skirts and the structural folding on jackets were evidence of McQueen's technique. It wasn't quite as elaborate or ingenius as his original work, but there were a few innovative ideas, including a dress that appeared to be constructed entirely from butterfly wings. Ebony confections that mimicked intertwined strands of leaves made the girls wearing them look more like woodland nymphs than catwalk models. Though footwear wasn't quite as farfetched as the famous crocodile shoes worn by Lady Gaga, heels constructed from metallic foilage and sandals adorned with simulated wheat were promising. Following up such a celebrated designer was more than difficult, but Sarah Burton executed it with admirable finesse.

all photos from style.com