'Sex and City' star honours tragic designer at premiere

The 45-year-old, who reprises her role as New York columnist Carrie Bradshaw in the eagerly anticipated sequel, wowed in a strapless McQueen gown, bag and heels, and a show-stopping hat by Philip Treacy in London's Leicester Square.

"There's only one person I could have worn tonight and that was Alexander McQueen. Lee, this is for you. I miss you very much," she said.

Two years ago, in 2008, Parker also chose a McQueen frock and Treacy headpiece for the premiere of Sex And The City: The Movie.

Parker's co-stars also shone on the red carpet.

Kim Cattrall – who plays publicist Samantha Jones – looked sultry in a vintage black Thierry Mugler gown and Manolo Blahnik heels, complete with lashings of red lipstick, while Cynthia Nixon, who portrays lawyer Miranda Hobbes, was a vision in a green Narciso Rodriguez number and Christian Louboutin shoes.

Kristin Davis – known as Charlotte York Goldenblatt – glittered in a vintage Norman Norell halterneck gown, which she teamed with Jimmy Choo shoes and a sparkling Judith Leiber clutch.

In Sex And The City 2, out in cinemas today, the foursome swap the sprawling streets of New York for the dry deserts of Abu Dhabi, in scenes which were actually shot in Morocco.

"It was wonderful. We had the best experiences we have ever had – we lived together, ate together, even slept on couches together," revealed Parker.

"It was one of the most memorable times we have ever had. It was pretty special."

Davis added: "We just want to make something for the fans to enjoy."

Kylie Minogue, Alexandra Burke, Amanda Holden, Rachel Stevens, Tess Daly and Emma Bunton were among the celebrities who stepped out for the premiere.