Designer: Alexander McQueen
Influence: Byzantine Art and medieval religious iconography
Alexander McQueen was a legendary designer who never failed to impress the fashion world with his cutting-edge designs. Referring to the final collection before McQueen’s untimely death, his design assistant, Sarah Burton stated,
“He wanted to get back to the handcraft he loved, and the things that are being lost in the making of fashion.”
McQueen was more than just a fashion designer, with his innovative designs he set the bar for what constituted as couture fashion. For his Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear line, McQueen looked to the Dark Ages and Byzantine art for inspiration.
Byzantine art consists of artwork made between the 4th and 15th centuries. Icon painting and church architecture, created by Eastern Orthodox Christians, are most commonly associated with Byzantine art. McQueen’s designs were influenced by similar dresses worn by women in drawings and depictions from this era.
In addition to Byzantine art, McQueen was also inspired by Hieronymus Bosch’s Garden of Earthy Delights. I was absolutely amazed when I discovered that McQueen had woven prints of this painting, as well as others, into many of his pieces from the collection. Each of the 16 outfits featured in McQueen’s fall collection were exquisitely tailored with intricate details and elaborate fabrics.
Without a doubt, the fashion world has lost a true icon. Alexander McQueen will be greatly missed.
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