How to Read An Alexander McQueen Clothing Tag

Alexander McQueen tags contain a manufacturing year code that can be used to determine the collection period. The date code is part of a longer serial number and its interpretation depends on the item's season (Spring/Summer vs. Autumn/Winter) and gender category.

How to read the date code

The number you need to look for is the four-digit year, which is typically found after a two-digit code that indicates the gender and diffusion line. 
  • Men's mainline: Codes start with UP54, followed by a four-digit year (e.g., UP54 2009).
  • Women's mainline: Codes start with UP55, followed by a four-digit year (e.g., UP55 2003).
  • McQ (diffusion line): McQ items may use UP59 for women and UP60 for men. 
Match the code to the collection

The year on the tag represents the year of manufacture, which may be different from the collection year. 
  • Autumn/Winter (AW) collections: The item will have been manufactured in the same year it was released.
    • Example: A men's jacket with the tag UP54 2009 is from the AW09 collection.
  • Spring/Summer (SS) collections: The item is manufactured in the year prior to its release.
    • Example: A women's piece with the tag UP55 2003 is from the SS04 collection. 
  • Example: A women's piece with the tag UP55 2003 is from the SS04 collection.
Other label information
Other details on the tag can also help authenticate the item and provide more information:
  • UPC and style numbers: The top of the tag may contain UPC codes and internal tracking numbers, followed by the specific style number or name of the garment.
  • Authenticity markers: When authenticating a product, ensure that the style information on all tags—both sewn-in and hang tags—is consistent. Be on the lookout for inconsistencies in fonts, spelling, and logo placement, which are often signs of counterfeit items.
  • Brand Approved NFC tags: Some "Brand Approved" items have special NFC (near-field communication) tags that you can tap with a smartphone to view digital authentication information. 

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