Sarah Burton has been appointed the new creative director of Alexander McQueen.

The designer had been the right-hand aide of McQueen, who committed suicide in February, for the past 16 years and has now been promoted at the London-based fashion house. She was credited with completing McQueen’s last-ever collection - which was showcased at Paris Fashion Week in March - and won rave reviews from the fashion world.

Speaking about the announcement, Burton paid tribute to McQueen, real name Lee, saying, “The creation of modern, beautifully crafted clothes was at the heart of Lee’s vision. I intend to stay true to his legacy.”

Jonathan Akeroyd, president and CEO of Alexander McQueen, said, “We are delighted that Sarah has agreed to take on the role of creative director. Having worked alongside Lee McQueen for more than 14 years, she has a deep understanding of his vision, which will allow the company to stay true to its core values.”

He is hoping her appointment will help strengthen the brand, with future plans including launching a men’s underwear collection: “Sarah is extremely talented and under her creative leadership we are ready to enter a new phase in the brand’s history.”