Alexander McQueen Spring 2014: Warriors Come Out and Play

Destination: Africa. Sarah Burton set the scene for guests arriving to the Spring 2014 Alexander McQueen show with a geometric runway and rustic wooden folding chairs that lined the halls of Paris's Garde Républicaine.

The clothing completed the journey. Infusing familiar silhouettes with an unexpected motif, Burton's warriors marched the basketweave sandbox in a global array of graphic red and black prints, patchwork separates, snakeskin heels, horsehair skirts, and hammered gold accents that included helmets, chokers, and stacked armbands.

Those accessories in particular would make stepping into war — be it in a feather-plumed gown or woven leggings — a battle won.