Fashion aide succeeds late British designer McQueen

A long-time collaborator of the late British fashion designer Alexander McQueen, Sarah Burton, has been appointed creative director of his label, owners Gucci announced on Thursday.

Burton has worked with McQueen since 1996 and was appointed head of design for the label's women's wear in 2000.

"The creation of modern, beautifully crafted clothes was at the heart of Lee's vision. I intend to stay true to his legacy," she said.

Jonathan Akeroyd, president and chief executive of Alexander McQueen, said Burton had a "deep understanding of (McQueen's) vision".

McQueen, who rose from a modest background to become one of the world's most flamboyant and high-profile designers, committed suicide in February on the day before his mother's funeral.

The body of the 40-year-old, who felt under pressure as he raced to put together a new collection, was found hanged in a wardrobe in his central London flat.

Robert Polet, the president of Gucci Group, said it remained "absolutely committed" to the Alexander McQueen company "which has proven to have strong customer loyalty and has shown to be a resilient brand in the aftermath of the tragic loss of its founder".