Fashion elite pays tribute to troubled 'modern genius' Alexander McQueen

Family and friends took a break from London Fashion Week for the ceremony, which was a "who's who" of the industry.

Kate Moss, who wore a black leather outfit with a plunging neckline and stilettos, attended the service at St Paul's Cathedral along with Sarah Jessica Parker, Naomi Campbell and Stella McCartney.

Flashes of McQueen's trademark tartan could be seen mourners paid homage by wearing his designs.

Described by editor of British Vogue, Alexandra Shulman, as a "modern genius", Lee Alexander McQueen earned himself a reputation as the "enfant terrible" of British fashion.

Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of American Vogue, paid tribute to "a complex and gifted young man" who grew up not far from the cathedral.

She said: "His was an 18-year career of harnessing his dreams and demons."

The industry was left reeling after the 40-year-old's suicide in his Mayfair flat the day before his mother Joyce's funeral. It was also just three years since the suicide of his close friend, style guru Isabella Blow, who helped launch his career.