Tears don’t necessarily make a good accessory, but at the Alexander McQueen presentation in Paris this morning, they were flowing.

Fifteen of the late designer’s final creations were put on display in a gilded ballroom in the headquarters of Francois Pinault as a solemn and chilling soundtrack played in the background.

The private show that took place Tuesday, to the classical music Mr. McQueen had been listening to as he cut and fitted the 2010 autumn collection, was a requiem for a great designer. His vision of Gothic glory, with a world bathed in religious symbolism, was translated not just with immense subtlety and beauty but also with the urgent futurism that was the essence of his spirit.

The 40-year-old couturier took his own life early last month. The company’s chief operating officer has already stated that there are no plans to replace the brand’s artistic director, but that the legacy and the label would live on.

The fall collection was inspired by old masters’ paintings and filled with ornate embroidery, deep red and gold hues and dramatic capes. According to Women’s Wear Daily, when the final look—a coat of golden feathers—made its entrance, spectators’ eyes filled with tears.

“Each piece is unique, as was he,” concluded the moving show notes.

source: McQueen’s Mesmerizing Finale [ny times]