Alexander McQueen: Marking the 54th birthday of a visionary who refashioned norms
Alexander McQueen was a figure who significantly influenced fashion history. His designs challenged norms, finding beauty in places where others seldom ventured. He meticulously crafted his collections, sometimes altering them with scissors just before the show and sending out models on the runway. His vision made him a favourite among celebrities and fashion connoisseurs.
The inception of Alexander McQueen's career
As a child, he designed dresses for his three sisters, cultivating his ambition to become an internationally renowned designer. Raised by a taxi driver and a social science teacher, he was the youngest of their six children.
McQueen started his career sewing theatrical costumes at Angels and Bermans. Despite a lack of formative education, he completed a master's degree at Central St. Martins College of Art. For five years, he was the chief designer of the Givenchy fashion house, later associating himself with the Gucci brand. Leveraging years of experience and a well-established reputation, he eventually opened his own Alexander McQueen studios.
Alexander McQueen's untimely passing
In 2010, Alexander McQueen was found dead in his London flat. The designer had hanged himself using his belt, leaving behind a short note. "Feed my dogs. I'm sorry. I love you", he penned, presumably referring to his husband.
Alexander McQueen was openly gay, and in the latter years of his life, he battled with depression and substance abuse. Traces of self-harm were apparent on his wrists.
The most captivating designs by Alexander McQueen
Among a selection of designs from various brands, those by Alexander McQueen would certainly stand out due to his distinct style.
The preferred designer of innovative London streetwear and individualist artists such as Bjork and Lady Gaga, McQueen's designs were marked by dramatic, theatrical elements.
Early in his career, his creations were intentionally provocative. "I'm not organizing a cocktail party. I prefer it when people leave my shows feeling nauseous," he once said.
A wire mesh dress or a garment splattered with black paint live during a performance just encapsulates his knack for unexpected surprises.
In the latter years of his career, he focused on designs inspired by history and film. His works retained an element of refinement while still leaving audiences astounded with their magnificence and creativity.
Inflated sleeves, avant-garde cuts, asymmetrical insets, dramatic measures, and symbols of roses and skulls were defining elements of Alexander McQueen’s aesthetic. "Fashion should be a form of escapism, not a prison", he touted.
His designs carried a feminist message. Therefore, in McQueen's perspective, fashion was not only visually crucial but also imbued with greater significance.
"I design clothes because I don't want women to appear innocent and naive. I want women to be seen as strong. I detest it when women are objectified. I abhor it when men objectify women on the street. I believe women deserve more respect. I admire it when men are struck by a woman's presence. I've witnessed a woman nearly beaten to death by her husband. I'm acquainted with misogyny. I want the women I dress to strike fear in people" shared Alexander McQueen.
He manipulated fashion to facilitate conversations about sociology, politics, and art in a less condescending manner.
"I aim to be associated with a particular silhouette or cutting style, so that people know after my death that the 21st century was ushered in by Alexander McQueen," he revealed.
