Royal Revelation: Hector Maclean’s AW25 ‘Bastard Aristocrat’ Collection Celebrates Hidden British Heritage
- 16 March 2025
British fashion designer Hector Maclean made headlines with an unexpected royal revelation, uncovering his direct descent from Lady Susan Bellasyse, a historically influential woman once romantically linked to King James II. The astonishing discovery of his hidden aristocratic lineage became the driving force behind Maclean’s critically acclaimed AW25 collection, aptly named “Bastard Aristocrat.”
Drawing inspiration from his newfound royal heritage, Maclean masterfully blended punk aesthetics with elegant aristocratic elements, creating a vibrant dialogue between his contemporary identity and his unexpected noble ancestry. Central to this collection were meticulously crafted garments from upcycled Union Jack fabrics—old flags and vintage bedsheets transformed into bold statements of modern British identity.
Iconic British women, including Maclean’s own ancestor Lady Susan Bellasyse, described historically as a “lady of life and vivacity,” became the muses behind key pieces. Black lace gowns reminiscent of Queen Victoria’s regal style shared the runway with playful Twiggy-inspired minidresses, paying tribute to Britain’s enduring cultural icons. Notably, Maclean even included a nod to his grandmother, who famously rejected the glamour of her pre-war debutante ball, preferring solitary reading—a personal touch resonating deeply with his creative narrative.
A stunning highlight of the AW25 collection was the dramatic couture train, meticulously assembled from hundreds of paper remembrance day poppies generously provided by the Royal British Legion. This poignant design piece delivered a strikingly stylish yet satirical commentary on the complexity of British cultural identity, seamlessly uniting diverse historical elements into one captivating fashion statement.
Ultimately, Hector Maclean’s AW25 Collection powerfully conveyed a universal truth: within everyone lies a trace of royalty. His revolutionary “Bastard Aristocrat” collection brilliantly honored the multifaceted heritage and vibrant spirit of Britain, establishing itself as an iconic moment in contemporary British fashion.
