McQueen committed suicide earlier this year.
Parker told the celebrity-studded crowd Monday night that it was with "honor and great regret" that she was there to mark the contribution and creativity the designer gave to his industry. After her remarks, a parade of somber models presented McQueen's final fashion collection.
Later, Michael Kors received a standing ovation for his lifetime achievement prize. Jason Wu, who designed Michelle Obama's inaugural gown, was picked as the top emerging talent in womenswear.
