The Life and Death of Alexander McQueen

Lee Alexander McQueen was a creative genius, but he was also haunted by his many years of abuse and negligence from both family and workplace. His story is far from a happy one, and led him to really hit out at those around him in order to make himself feel better. Yet, those that tried to help were swatted away in favour of profits and keeping McQueen working as much as he possibly could. However, all of the memory of McQueen as a person, not just a work horse, has been largely forgotten or overlooked by the public in lieu of him being seen as a creative that was so overcome by his creativity that his life came to an end. But of course, this was intentional. Since McQueen's passing there has been an active attempt at deifying his memory, in order to keep the company Alexander McQueen running profitably. Can we blame this on the Gucci Group or PPR? No, not really, it's a valuable asset. But, we can blame our consumptive cultures for taking a creative person and allowing him to be wrung dry to the extent that he could no longer survive. LVMH and the Gucci Group (PPR) are equal in this regard, they facilitated the toxic work place that contributed greatly to his mental decline. It's no different in other entertainment companies of course, but so much pressure is hard to take and over the years we have seen the fall of many creatives, from fashion to music to tv for similar reasons. But the difference for Lee Alexander McQueen is that his family have been removed from this process in a way they felt heartless. Now, having spoken up so many times throughout the years, it's certainly worth listening to Lee Alexander McQueen's story and at least trying to learn and move forward from here.
Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:17 Chapter 1: Early Life and Family
3:30 Chapter 2: Family Life and School
9:19 Chapter 3: Work Experience
14:42 Chapter 4: Central Saint Martins
17:56 Chapter 5: Early Career
24:18 Chapter 6: Fame
32:14 Chapter 7: Givenchy
43:26 Chapter 8: The Storm Before The Calm
50:46 Chapter 9: Gucci
53:25 Chapter 10: The End of Tom Ford and Isabella Blow
57:06 Chapter 11: Renaissance
1:02:50 Chapter 12: Death
Beauty Channel: / @underskinyt
Patreon: patreon.com/understitch
Affiliate Links for Books Used:
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Maureen Callahan - Champagne Supernovas: amzn.to/3uAq5Os
Anne Deniau - Love Looks Not With the Eyes: amzn.to/3wto6Mk
Emiline Fort - The Enfant Terrible of Fashion: amzn.to/49G1BlX
Chloe Fox - Vogue on Alexander McQueen: amzn.to/3SJT4ri
Katherine Gleason - Evolution: amzn.to/48j39B1
Karen Homer - The Little Book: amzn.to/4bCClie
Tansy Hoskins - The Anti-Capitalist Book of Fashion: amzn.to/49hbK8O
Kristen Knox - Genius of a Generation: amzn.to/497T5w5
Amy Odell - Anna: The Biography: amzn.to/49k4Y2e
Arianna Piazza - Fashion 150: amzn.to/49dAKh6
Dana Thomas - Gods and Kings: amzn.to/3I2bRJf
Judith Watt - The Life and Legacy: amzn.to/49c4cUK
Claire Wilcox - Alexander McQueen: amzn.to/49dPRaz
Andrew Wilson - Blood Beneath the Skin: amzn.to/42EbuhD

[@understitchYT]

If I was able to turn all the research Ive done over the last year into a full book, would you be interested?

[@sophiekay3294]

yes!!!!!!

[@Busymetal]

A RESOUNDING YES

[@katemarlor1816]

Yes. I think McQueen and Chanel need to be framed and reframed. Would love your thoughts.

[@jhoover3098]

A HUGE YES!!

[@VioletFem]

Yes!

[@traumaqueeen]

The way he treated Isabella Blow once he became successful was despicable, after she had invested time and money into his career!

[@understitchYT]

Yes truly very cruel, and the more she clung on the worse he got. Very difficult to see

[@chigal0926]

💯🎯

[@Ki_Thi]

Like Warhol did Edie Sedgewick. Male artists use and abuse their muses

[@nathalia65157]

Totally. Never understood this

[@kes78]

What did he do to Isabella Blow? I loved her and was so sad when she decided to leave us. Wasn't she his muse?

[@jerryshepherd2784]

A true life documentary on Isabella Blow would be a fitting tribute to Isabella. I met her at the Limelight in London and became instant friends! She hid her weaknesses quite well! She was truly a guilty victim. I would also be very committed to watch a 5 hour video on the brief yet brilliantly talented life .

[@understitchYT]

I would love to cover her actually, and Im still working on the McQueen 5 hour biography, but because it's being turned into a book it's taking much longer than expected. I've already started on the next biography of a designer and I expect that will come out well before the book does tbh

[@2120musiclover]

I would TOTALLY watch a 5 hour doc on McQueen!

[@georgia7338]

same here !

[@rebeccamullins2496]

Same

[@sandstar4]

Same!

[@melissamaryak2481]

Same

[@michaelrichardt]

@@georgia7338 SAME

[@KatieRae_AmidCrisis]

Absolutely yes to a full 5 hours of YT content on this topic! A 5-part series, if you think all in one hit is not the best idea for your channel...?

[@understitchYT]

Series work doesn't usually go well on YT, thats why i did it this way, because its based on watch time and (as per usual) sequels have a lesser viewership possibility, it just very rarely does well in the algo ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@meep-vm5tc]

@@understitchYTif it is put on here it’s probably going to be the most comprehensive video ever created about his life tbh

[@ivanmyles]

​@@understitchYT I enjoy your work. ♥️ Perhaps Nebula might be worth looking into as a complement for long form videos.

[@eriklost4947]

@@understitchYTactually 5hour videos do reallyyyy well on KZbin like see the series about victorious they have like millions of views

[@effoffhomeslice]

I second this. Nebula would be a great place for this channel to expand!@@ivanmyles @understitchYT

[@chelseagirl278]

As a survivor of SA, it encompasses your whole being. It NEVER leaves you - the terror, hate for yourself, (when it should be to your perpetrator) I have been told, "You are in your 50s, why don't you get over it and move on" You CANNOT forget the horrors, sights, smells, lies, especially when you are a child. Your brain and body are developing during this time and everything in your life is overwhelming and painful. The pit of depression and suicide feels like your only option OUT (Please NEVER GIVE UP!) I have had decades of therapy and yet what happened to me affects my everyday life and interaction with everyone and everything. I can relate and understand how he treated people. Sadly, it sounds like Lee was never treated and healed from what happened to him. This makes me so sad! Lee was responsible for himself as an adult, what I do not understand is that no one help him go to therapy or see a psychotherapist or psychiatrist. I am not a specialist, but I am positive that he had Borderline Personality Disorder - most people who have been through SA have this. I am speculating, that all the drugs and sex was a mask to all the pain, let me tell you there is a lot of PAIN! Rest in Peace, Lee Alexander McQueen. We will never forget you!

[@audreywellham2413]

Bless you, you’ve been through so much and are a great example of how abuse harms and scars forever. Your journey and treatment is a testament to your strength. Stay and continue to be well. I wish you forever peace. 💙🙏🏻

[@liasisboa]

I treated Borderlines exclusively for 20 years. I understand your relating of your history to your behaviour. However, the importance of “moving on” is paramount. Your diagnosis and history cannot become your hobby. Sounds harsh, our treatment was harsh, but it worked.

[@chelseagirl278]

Thank you for your beautiful and kind words. It is only through my faith in God have I been able to survive this whole time. I wish you the same peace! 🙏

[@chelseagirl278]

Thank you for your endless work helping people. I know professionals say that that working with people with BPD is difficult. I have moved on because I do not want my diagnosis to be me for the rest of my life and DBT has been so helpful. The reason I mentioned people using that phrase and disliking it, is because they have been dismissing the SA as it wasn't important. Yes, it is a part of me, but healing is work and I still have a long life to lead out to HAPPINESS!

[@CultgentlemanJack]

He was diagnosed with AIDS he knew this and grew up in the AIDS epidemic.. he was a selfish pig and sleeping with people and never disclosed his disease.. do you think those poor people who would of contracted the life altering diseases.. would say oh poor Alexander was just miss understood and was a victim of sexual abuse may he rest in peace. No they wouldn’t they would have a life long struggle and there lives as they knew it is over through no fault of there own. because of a selfish pig who was too weak to confront and deal with his abuse through therapy or treatment and self care. Working through self therapy or professional therapy is confronting and excepting his past and taking the steps to free himself is key to freedom. I’m a survivor I have had struggles and dark periods I came to a cross roads either I except this deal with it or I will never be able to live my life. I choose to fight I choose to except life and not let myself become a victim of my past. I never abused people around me and I never got drunk and burden another person with my past. I choose to work for inner peace and I released myself . has it affect my life yes but i never let it define me as a person and I never lashed out or mistreated anyone in my life. What I can not stand is because his a celebrity everyone condones his self narcissistic neurotic personality as a result of his past. He was a selfish person to begin with who had a shity personality? Plan and simple. And here is the point of my reply everyone has shity dark unfortunate crap happen to them in life. You either deal with it and choose to live life or it will consume you and drag you down into a living helish nightmare you can not pull yourself out of. And as for support and help that’s on You it’s not up to everyone else around you to deal with your shit or sort your baggage out that’s not how life or reality works it’s on you it’s your responsibility. He was a selfish pig of a person who had horrible things happen to him he had money privilege opportunity and purpose and what did he do with all of that threw it all away. He needed tough love boo hoo Alexander wake up and get in line you are not the only one that this has happened to so stop your crap most of us are not blessed with the privilege of money and opportunities you had in life which would have made mine and many others horrific journey much more painless. And what did you do get pissed and become erratically, uncontrollable selfish and overindulged in his own misery making everyone else around you just as miserable.. then you killed yourself leaving those who where left in your life with emotional baggage that intern will take them decades to unpack.. selfish self scented miserable person.

[@ShaloMEibbotson]

I lived a few houses away from Alexander McQueen in Stratford and went to the same primary school. I just remember him being very quiet, and always saw him alone without friends. He just had his dog, Ben.

[@understitchYT]

Was he as bullied as they say in books?

[@SierraNovemberKilo]

I don't think anyone will admit to absolute vileness of a considerable part of the East London population. As a non-local I was treated to some of it when I moved there. Friends raised there only refer to it in a round about way - snitching gets you the serious, life & limb threatening abuse.

[@1000_O]

Hurt people, hurt people, corny, but true. A genius whatsoever, probably as a way to cope with the pain, I wish everyone who reads this inner peace. Great video, as always

[@understitchYT]

I mean, it’s a famous saying for a reason. Her people lash out, because they don’t know where else to put their anger and frustration, and McQueen certainly had both of those.

[@aprilsky8474]

And it's also an excuse people use.

[@mignoncat1]

Hurt people hurt people until they make a choice ; whether to continue the hatred & anger , or , to be good & cause no harm . McQueen sought to blame , lash-out & destroy . He chose the bad .

[@1000_O]

@@mignoncat1 Absolutely! I see my comment is being misunderstood, I'm not justifying evil, understanding the root of bad behavior is key to understand the human nature, most times, people won't be evil out of the blue, there is always a root, most times, self hate or insecurities, there is a clear connection. As much as there is a connection between being an outcast and having a creative vision, creativity, more often than not, is related with escapism from the real world, anyone related to the arts can confirm this. HOWEVER! I'm well aware it's each individual's work to try their best to get better, get in balance and in peace with their feelings to achieve a healthier interaction with the exterior world!

[@heposlis2409]

​​@@mignoncat1energy can't be created or destroyed only transformed Which is why all pain doesn't just dissappear as your choice You have to release it somewhere in boxing etc. Or in most case the closest people get hurt first.

[@damienlynch7428]

Just watched the documentry, and just wow. Your documentary has to be THE BEST I have seen about Mcqueen with so much insights. What a sad and troubled soul. Well done!

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much, I’m so glad you enjoyed it

[@jerryshepherd2784]

I agree ! Very informative and shows a deeper glimpse of the foundation of his life.

[@elucified]

Wow. I'll need a few days to process this amazingly detailed video essay, but I'll say that it's insane to hear the truly horrific ways fame and money took advantage of McQueen. The ways his trauma haunted him until the day he passed was terrifying and so saddening to hear.

[@understitchYT]

It’s so sad right? I was in floods of tears while researching this, especially towards the end of books, it was so difficult

[@regmcnallynally8879]

​@@understitchYTthankyou for your persistence & dedication . Harrowing to watch ( I had to take breaks on the 1st view) so can't imagine how difficult n challenging it was 4 U. EXCELLENT👏 VERY WELL DONE 👏👏👏 RIP Lee Alexander McQueen 🙏🏽

[@Thisath100]

I watched this a few days ago, and still can't stop thinking about it. So, so well done - I was gripped the entire time, and what a story it was. So much to learn and work through with the incredible creator that Lee was. You're a fantastic documentary maker!

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much, I’m so glad to see you returned to watch again 🤍

[@jhoover3098]

Fantastic!! Im so touched by your ability to see the dark and the light, and to always see the humanity. Especially here it’s deeply moving, and meaningful to the history. I’m going to start listening a second time right away!

[@understitchYT]

Youre always have such great taste

[@techtiger217]

As a survivor of SA and drug addiction it saddens me that he was unable to get to help he needed. I'm a nobody but....I'm alive and HAPPY & CONTENT🎉🎉. Well done biography

[@understitchYT]

Im so happy that you survived, your outlook seems so healthy, Im glad you liked the biography but Im mostly just so happy to hear youre healthy 🤍

[@immrcat79]

I can't speak or articulate any thought or idea after this one! Thank you so much for this huge, insane and hard work. There's no one like you in making this kind of videos! Alexander will always be THE GREAT!

[@understitchYT]

Im so glad you liked it, thank you for watching

[@simonbinguingi7733]

Most eye opening detailed McQueen information I’ve come across on any designer to say the least thank you. This definitely has helped me in realizing I lack and pick up some of the same tendencies that He went thru as he fueled his anxiety and stress into his work and art, very good reminder on how dangerous of a source inspiration through pain and trauma can lead down the wrong paths of doing things to the full potential and still be dissatisfied with the outcome.

[@markjohnson2257]

Thank you so much for this. I have seen loads of content about the FASHION side of McQueen. I did not know how tragic his personal life was. I am glad you did not shy away from how cruel McQueen could be to the one 's who loved him the most. There is a channel on KZbin called Soft White Underbelly. It shows many people dealing with the effects of childhood trauma. When childhood trauma is not dealt with, it just wrecks havoc on so many lives.

[@understitchYT]

It was awful, he had abused from his family and school life, so he really had no safe space. Then, when he did get away from it at 16, he would’ve had no money to seek help, nor that it was common in those days, and even when he could afford help, he was too busy and deep in addictions grips to actually Reap its benefits. Very very difficult story.

[@skrittle555]

The amount of research that went into this is astounding. I feel as if I truly got a glimpse into the man's life, behind just the fashion brand. Poor Lee. He deserved so much better. Robbed of a childhood and never truly healed from that. He created some of the best designs to ever grace the fashion world in my opinion, but I wish that he were still alive today to create more. Brilliant video.

[@understitchYT]

I agree so much, he had his childhood stolen from him by two awful men in a power position. Such a tragedy. Im glad you liked the video

[@scherzinger3]

My father used to destroy my designs of objects. It is not seen as a 'real man' thing. But you have to survive things and drugs and risky behavior is a bad idea.

[@understitchYT]

Im so sorry you had to go through that, he sounds like a very insecure person. Im glad you realised and are living well now 🤍

[@LJlnn]

Yesss! these are the type of videos ive been waiting to see from you. longer and with so much more detail!!! love 💜

[@understitchYT]

This kind of depth takes time of course, but aim glad youre here for the brand analyses too

[@razorblademail]

I can imagine it was timeconsuming and having to sift through a ton of information! You have produced something that visually and verbally will help many young graduates in their research and done also with respect to McQueen as a human. Well done and thank you for this episode!

[@understitchYT]

It took about 11 months to put together, but I’m so grateful for the amount of people that were able to help, it’s incredible that I contacted most of the authors, many people that McQueen knew, university friends and so many people were able to help

[@groominator-magneticequato7195]

Thanks for creating this. Best I’ve found!

[@understitchYT]

Im so glad you think so, a lot a lot of love went into creating this

[@jcs3330]

Loved this. And could have listened to it for another 3 hours!. Thanks for putting so much of your time into it.

[@understitchYT]

The 5 hour version is on Patreon now, but as soon as I finish the book and find a literary agent itll come here too hopefully

[@GodWearsGucci]

I just learned soooooo much that I, sadly, did not know. Thank you. Wonderful job

[@understitchYT]

Im so glad! Hopefully when I finally get the book and the long version done youll like it just as much 🥰

[@krschn7673]

Amazing Vid Essay as always! thank you for bringing humanity into this story. As much as we wanted to know his genius, his story as a broken man has to be told as well.

[@understitchYT]

Thank you for coming to the live

[@LipstickL]

New sub, so many places you mentioned have memories for me. Brilliant channel

[@understitchYT]

So glad to have you here 🥰

[@effoffhomeslice]

This was worth the wait! I had been anticipating it since your reply to my comment on your last Lee video where you alerted that you were working on this. Bravo, beautifully researched as usual. I'm all in on the 5 hrs! and second what some people are suggesting about looking into Nebula as a platform to expand. I will also buy any book you write, be it about Lee or not. In the last year this channel has become one of my absolute favorites, and reminded me that a love of fashion artistry can exist even if you don't have the budget for these designer houses. Thank you for everything you do, as always!

[@understitchYT]

I’m so glad you’ve been enjoying for so long. Did somebody else say about nebula? I haven’t seen that comment, and I thought I was being quite diligent with comments? I will have a look into it, thank you 🥰

[@teunvalk6095]

Great video, thank you !!

[@understitchYT]

Thank you 🤍

[@gunessatiyuksel]

love it thank you again

[@understitchYT]

Thank you

[@hotaruhime]

Your research is impeccable, that was captivating from beginning to end ! You treated your subject with humanity and I felt you put a lot of care into this. I loved the McQueen documentary film but I felt I learned a lot more about his life watching this video, that's how good it is ! I love your channel and you're a great storyteller !

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much, Im so proud of this video, so to hear you learnt more from this than the actual documentary is just incredible 🥰

[@mindingpeople]

You did a great job with this video! I didn't know a lot about Alexander McQueen, but I admire your ability to tell this layered story with a lot of compassion but also honesty. I would also have watched it if you had made this into a series of 5 hours long, because I found it fascinating how detailed your video was.

[@understitchYT]

Thank you very much! I still need to finish editing the five hour long version, but the response has been amazing 🤍

[@theabraham]

i love your videos and the abundance of knowledge it has provided me, but the long sentences... they got me this time particularly

[@understitchYT]

Im glad you enjoyed the video

[@pablojavieralfaro8999]

I have no words for the kind of work you make. It's not only the contents you share but it's the way your videos are edited, all the information you gather and your impecable diction. Thank you so much.

[@understitchYT]

What a wonderful comment to read, thank you so much. Ive been a bit emotional after the poll on my community tab today and this just really hit me and made me tear

[@pablojavieralfaro8999]

@@understitchYT . 🤗🥰

[@alvin9713]

I can only imagine how meticulous and demanding the research for this video must have been. This is amazing and I love that you humanized him, something most people often forget for some reason.

[@understitchYT]

All those books at the beginning were really just the start point. I checked everything between sources, tried to find corresponding articles or people that could corroborate. It was brilliant, absolutely fascinating and so interesting to even get to speak to the people closest to McQueen personally to ask for extra details

[@CooksFSH]

Fantastic video, you conducted excellent research! You spoke eloquently while respecting the life of McQueen and Isabella Blow.

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much, I really wanted to do them justice

[@bohotumbleweed8319]

Excellent,thank You

[@understitchYT]

Thank you too!

[@lily_m3538]

interesting documentary. Good job.

[@understitchYT]

Im so glad you enjoyed it 🥰

[@ea-rl6bk]

great work. i always want to know the exact steps, exact moments and early stages of great minds. the steps they took, what lead to what, and this was a great piece on that. lovely detail and u provide such a concise description and set of information, about to click through the rest of ur channel and if it’s anything like this u absolutely have a sub. edit: v helpful for someone my age (22) and seeing where and what everyone was doing and getting into at my age range

[@understitchYT]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the video, thank you for subscribing🥰did you find other things that you liked?

[@orangejuix]

i'd absolutely watch a 5hr video on Lee!! if you ever come around posting it even if it is in another platform i'd be interested

[@understitchYT]

So much love for the 5hr version, I think its safe to say when Ive finished editing and have the book ready it may come to youtube

[@jhammond2237]

What a broad minded and excellent documentary! ❤❤

[@understitchYT]

Im so glad you liked it, thank you

[@rafaelyaguaro2842]

A good idea, with a positive for your channel, would be make a series of long docs you have. If the research and subsequent video is more than 2 hours, put it in parts, trust, people would watch it and anticipate each part because your work is amazing. And with this video, I cried a little when Isabella's part were told, he was a monster to her, but by the end....I feel so much for his siblings l...

[@understitchYT]

A lot of people suggest this to me, but sequels usually have about half the viewership of the original, and imagine if it was in the 13 parts that I’ve written. By the end chapter, it would have no views and it would really hurt my channel in the algorithm. I have a much better chance at one long video with long viewership than with 13 and only one has good viewership, you know?

[@celestineimperial94]

this has been one of my favorite videos on Alexander McQueen ever made. thank you for all your research and sharing with us in a way that showed him as a three dimensional individual

[@understitchYT]

Im so glad you enjoyed it, thank you so much for watching 🥰

[@fanyang8321]

Brilliant content. It's rare to see there are still creators like you who made thorough research and create such quality content. Well done.

[@understitchYT]

It takes a lot of time, I loved making it, but it can be quite taxing to wait and work so long, and god forbids if it fails, imagine 11 months of my life for nothing? Itd be crushing. I imagine thats why theres less content like this. Its just too much work to risk failure 🤷 Genuinely, if I didnt genuinely want to do all this for myself, I wouldnt advise myself to do it

[@fanyang8321]

@@understitchYT haha I like your sense of humour😆I think when we have enthusiasm for a certain subject matter we'd trick ourselves to go through a LOT and actually, manage to put up with all the hard work. It's all the dopamine released in our central system keeps pushing us forward to seek out the truth behind the truth. 11 months sounds less like a research process but more like a scientific expedition. So I have to say congratulations, what a journey you had! But you made it!! You should be so proud of yourself. I've been watching your videos for a while now, I think your channel is an acquired taste. Yes it is longer than other videos, but the type of content you created is not for ppl who simply go for 'instant gratification'. Your audience enjoy details, depth, sophistication, spirit of academic, and to go a bit further, Kindness and Humanity. Keep up the good work! You absolute legend ✨

[@understitchYT]

@@fanyang8321 Youre so right, its the excitement I feel when I find a nugget I previously didn't know before and its just wonderful. I also think youre right, I'm not an 'instant gratification' channel, I dont talk about drama when its dramaing and I really dont give much of my own opinion outside of the comment section, but really its incredibly heartwarming how many people are refreshed by that. I just had an idea to try to give unbiased opinions on branding and retailing for something that I love, and to find so many equally as interested, but kind, people has been phenomenal. 10/10 for the fashion community on social media really, great people

[@fanyang8321]

@@understitchYT People can sometime be such a disappointment but it's also people who made us feel encouraged, loved and hopeful. I think I'm hopeful because the existence of your channel. Keep up the good work! The world needs you 😇🙌🎶

[@monchii6468]

Absolutely Fabulous !

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much 🥰

[@liamlombard9315]

great doco , this was really good and befitting of mcqueen

[@understitchYT]

Im so glad you think so, thank you for watching

[@liamlombard9315]

@@understitchYT U should do or put up the 5hr + version, IV watched most fash docos and Ur other ones on McQueen this one was just more about him who he really was, and I just found Ur research next level in this one, great video essay 💞

[@understitchYT]

@@liamlombard9315 Thank you so much, I definitely will be continuing to edit all of that video, it's shocking how long its taken, but to weave it in between other videos was key. When it's done perhaps Ill do another vote to see if everyone is still interested :)

[@aay_itsme]

Your next video should be about Michael Kors, I’ve always been interested in his work and how he started as well. Love the video ❤️

[@understitchYT]

Oh Ive already started the next one, Im keeping the subject under my hat though 🥰

[@iamsoYanz]

Thank you 🖤

[@understitchYT]

🤍

[@yassercastillo2607]

The relationship with Isabella seems like out of a Tennessee Williams play.

[@understitchYT]

💀

[@Beitownit]

This was such a well done documentary and I learned some details of Lee's life that I didn't know before. The abuse he suffered as a child not only tortured him it became the driving force of his life. He used the pain and aguish he felt inside as his defensive mechanism whether it was through his clothes or personal life. He manifested his inner torment in his personal life by not allowing people to get to close to him out of fear they would only end up hurting him like they did when he was a kid, and in his profession that torment was always present in his work. His drinking and substance abuse drowned out the pain and he enjoyed it because it provided him with an escape from all the suffering he was feeling inside, and he found solace and peace in the hours where the pain was gone. Him learning that he was positive only exacerbated his substance abuse, and losing Blow and his mother was pain to unbearable for him to cope with. Lee was a tortured soul with talent beyond his years who was thrust into fame in an industry notorious for being extremely fickle and totally detached from the human element of the business. I can personally relate to much of his pain and I completely understand why he found substance abuse useful; I don't condone it but I get it. I share a lot in common with his mental struggles that's why i felt compelled to write this. He wasn't mean, nasty and vulgar to people because that's who he was it's because of who he was trying to escape from every single day of his life. There's a reason I connected to his work very early on and watching this bought it full circle and it made sense. You earned a follow. Thank you!

[@understitchYT]

He wasnt mean because thats who he was, it’s because he was trying to escape every single day of his life 👏👏👏

[@thejussabu3185]

Great video. Could you pls do a video on Cristobal Balenciaga (a deep dive, like this video) if possible? I absolutely admire his work and would love to see a documentary on his work and life.

[@understitchYT]

I have replied to this comment three separate times and it keeps deleting my reply. Can you read them? (I keep saying I already have a Balenciaga video)

[@Sheena_101]

I would love to see the 5 hour version or read this in a book! Thank you so much for putting this lovely video together and all your hard work!!! 💕💕

[@understitchYT]

I’m so glad you liked it! All I have now to do is to finish the book, finish the editing, find a literary agent 😅

[@Sheena_101]

@@understitchYT I hope it all goes well!!! Make sure to be kind to yourself and take breaks! 💕😊 I shall keep my fingers crossed for you!!

[@Cheryl407]

This was incredible, thank youl

[@understitchYT]

Im so glad you enjoyed it

[@jerryshepherd2784]

How nice to see Billy Boy mentioned! I once owned a Billy Bot Godhead Coat. It was very heavy made from corduroy it was Black with a pistachio green lining . I would have it now had it been more conducive to CA weather. This vid was a trio down memory lane. Thank you ! Body Map might make a future interest or even the Hyper Hyper Designers .

[@understitchYT]

Omg you do??? I would love something from him, maybe his doll or even his book. He’s got quite a strong fanbase behind him because he’s so interesting, he fascinates me entirely

[@vialogan]

Very well done! Fashion icons, they're just like us:) And not a single mispronounciation - impressive!

[@understitchYT]

Thank you very much, and I'm pretty careful with pronunciation, can't get them all, but I try

[@roviannematovu3756]

Brilliant! Could u cover Oswald Boateng for some Diversity, dare I say it? And Dapper Dan from Harlem - fascinating backstory. Much appreciated!

[@understitchYT]

I would adore to do both, I think Dapper Dan will be a great video, but Im personally really obsessed with Boateng, Id love to have a suit from him one day. Also, youre right about diversity, I do really try to be diverse, but of course history as it is, there are a lot more white designers and white celebrities with famous fashion lines unfortunately. Ive got a video from a black actress coming the video after next, but Ill definitely make a note to be more active with my efforts 🤍

[@deniseandrews113]

​@understitchYT I'd love to see you do something on Ann Lowe, the black female who designed Jackie Kennedy's wedding gown...

[@understitchYT]

I would love to cover Lowe, but I just dont think it'll get the clicks tbh. Maybe I should just do it and find out tho, she was such an interesting person and her business model was very different to how we think of fashion today

[@deniseandrews113]

@understitchYT I agree about the clicks. She is such an unsung hero. Even Jackie O wouldn't give her credit, referring to her as the "negro seamstress"

[@erstwhile6163]

This is EASILY the best summation of McQueen I have ever heard. Thank you. May his troubled soul rest in peace.

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much, Im so glad the video had been well received 🥰

[@yuri-xf4qw]

This is one of the best researched channels on youtube. I'm honestly constantly blown away by the concise detail you have and the insight you provide. The genuine passion you have about fashion really comes through, anyway just continue what your doing ❤

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much, Im so glad to see my efforts are noticed,,, and you're right, I absolutely adore fashion (and McQueen too, he was one of the greats)

[@saharsin7413]

I'm really really sad that we lost him, his art is one of biggest influences in my life. Although I wouldn't tolerat his behavior, I have so much sympathy for him . Not every body will react to sexual abuse and verbal violence the same way, we really can't judge him. I think he tried to get better at some point but it was too late for his body and soul. Also word "pressure" in fashion industry is an understatement!!! 14 collections a year insisting 78 pieces each plus the heavy critical eyes on you all the time can drive anyone to madness!!Thank you for this amazing video, and I'll watch the 5 hours version definitely :)

[@understitchYT]

I actually personally knew a couple of people who I discuss in this video and fortunately they told me that they understood he was coming from a place of hurt. I think AM was very fortunate to have such good people around him

[@Beitownit]

Galliano's meltdown at Dior came after years of mounting pressure to produce more collections. His public meltdown came after producing over 30 collections that year. How did he deal with the stress? Alcohol and substance abuse. Did LVMH care at all that Galliano was a human and not a robot? probably not.

[@poorcollegekid]

Banger

[@understitchYT]

Thank you 🥰

[@tommybutler2454]

I was born in the same year. I have had some really down times. I hate thinking thar he and his muse were so disenchanted with life. As low as I get, I always seem to find the beauty in life and find the strength somehow to keep going even when I don't think I can. I hope they have both found peace, wherever we go when our time here is over. ❤🙏

[@understitchYT]

Im glad you can find that Tommy. Depression is no joke and being able to pull yourself through is very admirable. Its a real shame to learn about McQ and Isabella, I cant imagine how hard it must have been. Im so happy to hear youre able to find that beauty, life brings peace eventually to those who persevere 🤍

[@TheFromNOWon]

I would love a 5 hour doc on Alexander McQueen ❤

[@understitchYT]

Its on its way

[@neelabh1745]

5 hours seems like exactly what we want to see on this platform

[@georgecerda6727]

Amazing job!

[@understitchYT]

Thank you!

[@ayushisharma8657]

Thank you for this episode. It’s eye opening, and talks about how important it is to know the dark side as they still exist in the fashion industry. For anyone suffering from depression or any kind of mental health problems, you are loved! You are beautiful and you’re much more than that problem and you deserve to live life to the fullest without pain. Please seek help, and know that you’re not alone. ❤

[@rotem1437]

Great job!!! I learned a lot more about him❤

[@understitchYT]

Glad you enjoyed it 🤍

[@618B]

To understand the life and times and work of Alexander McQueen, his designs, his fantasy, behavior, ideas, obsession with the gruesome, darkness, twisted and macabre, all you have to do is watch the latest Hellraiser film and look at the manner in which Mr. McQueen died. There is no need for elaborate storytelling.

[@mystrength5640]

Only listened to a little, I’m already heart broken for him! From a young child he was Abused, this Absolutely devastated the remainder of his life!

[@understitchYT]

What breaks my heart even further is knowing that back, then he neither had the money, nor was there awareness of mental health for him to actually get the help he needed. Then, when he actually had money and awareness to get help for it, he didn’t have the ability to because there was so much pressure on him. Just awful really.

[@Belihoney]

It's so tragic I cant dldn imagine what his mental health was like throughout his life

[@hagfish_]

Of course I would want to watch 5 hours of this kind of content.

[@frog2226]

I would love to see an episode like this of Martin Margiela!

[@understitchYT]

I was very much considering doing him soon, though I can’t say next because I have someone else in mind 🤔

[@user-hc2tu7ul7j]

Netflix worthy documentary. McQueen is interesting as all hell. I was never m**** by anyone, but I knew a ton of people that were when we were children so I understand the attitude that comes with it. I applaud you for bringing it up, along with the weight troubles. Im I think in the early 2000s especially the idea of ‘if I am thin, everything will be ok’ was sooo prévenant in a way that the current generation will not understand it

[@understitchYT]

Im so glad you enjoyed it, thank you so much for your kind words. I agree about the 90s/2000s toxic ‘health’ culture. Its almost impossible to describe to someone that wasnt there

[@Chloe-vi5mb]

This was such a brilliant and well researched documentary McQueen is one of my favourite designers and this was an amazing insight into Lee fantastic well done 👏

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much, he was an incredible talent

[@luisatheobald5699]

What a coincidence that this video is coming out when the new collection of the new creative director gets revealed

[@understitchYT]

Yes, yes, a coincidence 🤔

[@fashunslore]

probably an obvious comment but your timing of posting is always so perfect

[@understitchYT]

Its definitely intentional 🥰

[@letsd0good]

what a thorough study, thank you.

[@understitchYT]

Thank you 🥰

[@jeweloholic]

The last shots of Lee with the bird reminds me of his bird feather dresses. I made a knock off of his snowflake dress. He must have loved snow to come up with that dress.

[@understitchYT]

He adored birds so much, I never really thought about it in my childhood but he is right, theyre so majestic and beautiful

[@immrcat79]

My anxiety drives me to thank you for the 1 and 15 minutes before start watching because I KNOW THIS one is the GREATEST OF THEM ALL (like Alexander). Long-time waited since Galliano's and FINALLY It'S HERE in such a perfect time according to the upcoming hours-to-be a New Era for the house!. The Swiss precision you manage is admirable! THANK you! PS: I NEED THE 5-long-Movie! but is i have to choose one topic The Givenchy Years would be the one i picked

[@understitchYT]

I tried to cut the intro down I swear! hahahaha Im glad it helped you get into it though, Im glad you liked it in general. But I definitely want to do a full life and (times?) video on Galliano, he also lived such a volatile life

[@alotofmore]

Your work is phenomenal. You help me remember my love for fashion as an industry as opposed to a fantasy.

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much 🥰

[@maxlancaster6685]

Do a video on undercover

[@understitchYT]

Oh I absolutely need to! I adore undercover

[@deniseandrews113]

😢😢😢

[@marieberg4456]

I’ve been waiting for this video!! To this day, “Savage Beauty” at the V&A Museum in London has been one of the most impressive and beautiful exhibitions I’ve ever seen…

[@understitchYT]

My dad cried at this exhibition, it was phenomenal

[@hopew6979]

Wonderfully done. I would totally watch your full 5hrs doc on him or get the book if you decide to publish one. I really appreciated how well you showcased Lee as a person, a complicated person, giving equal space to the light and the darkness of his humanity. This was a very clear and compassionate take on who Lee was and as per usual, the thoroughness of your research shines through. I'm also glad you pointed out that the people around him, especially PPR/Gucci Group & LVMH, enabled and abetted Lee's personal demons when they had the means to help him. You're right that we can't blame them entirely for controlling the narrative after his death; that was a smart move on their part to protect the brand sure. However, they could have focused on protecting the person while Lee was still alive by not further adding to his mental decline with a incredibly toxic work environment, overly demanding schedule, and by even supporting him in seeking psychological help.

[@understitchYT]

Im so glad you enjoyed the biography. I agree with you that they could have helped him when he was alive, businesses generally have a duty of care to their employees and it sounds to me very much like his family believe they did not abide by that

[@Mamitarococo69]

Amazing video darling ! Thank you for your content and commitment ❤

[@understitchYT]

Im so glad you enjoyed it 🥰

[@lisabrightly]

Beautifully executed piece, thank you. He was a very complicated man. I hope he has peace now, surely he suffered from trauma and PTSD in this life. I'm sorry he couldn't get ahead of it.😮

[@understitchYT]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the video, it was such a difficult life, I do also hope he has a peace now

[@lisabrightly]

@@understitchYT yes, absolutely - thank you for creating such a great video. God bless him 😔

[@pamronning]

Who is he? So now I know fascinating

[@lucianasalles7272]

Vamps fazer um desfile na Alemanha?!

[@mommyharris1111]

I just learned about his background, I have no idea about fashion but I can tell you that it is in our genetics to be creative. Lee and I are from the same family from Scotland to America. There is a lot of trauma in our family lineage. I have to say that as I have aged, I came to realize that the reason mental illness creeps in is because we have a genetic abnormality called MTHFR and when we partake in abuses and habits it destroys our bodies and minds. Alcohol makes many of them totally angry and mean people. I have read stories about John Randolph of Roanoke and his angry and erratic behavior at his near end. The people in my family usually die early unless they live a clean lifestyle, those live to old age but lose their minds and end up in homes because they become erratic and near uncontrollable. Wonder if Lee knew that he was probably named after Robert E. Lee. I have an uncle named Lee as well. He would have probably been happier being named Jane. Every other girl has been named Jane for 300 years. LOL I really wish I could have come upon this information earlier. I think that I could have really helped him out, he really needed to do his shadow work to step into his true potential. Looks like the enzymes got him first and his brain was high jacked. Im very empathetic to his life and struggle. You definitely took on a tough life this incarnation.

[@understitchYT]

I've been looking into his family tree in research for my book and I think I found the exact ancestor that went to America! I'm so stoked by it and I wonder if its the same person as in your family tree

[@mommyharris1111]

@@understitchYT my ancestor was William Henry Randolph of Henrico, Virginia. The Randolph family has a bunch of different lines that come off of it, some of them were politicians, presidents, and preachers. My family was the preachers, they left Virginia and ended up starting the protestant reformation movement in Alabama.

[@understitchYT]

Ah no, thats not the same then. For the McQueens it was John Edward McQueen born 1872 that moved to America. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but wouldn't it have been a wild way to find out you were related to McQueen if it was? haha

[@garrieleepeck8753]

Very sad been abused as a kid fucks people up im one of the lucky people .i felt for his friends that helped him get were he was in life if it wasn't for mrs blow

[@understitchYT]

Abuse it just ruins people and I'm glad we are having more conversations about it now. His childhood abuse should never have happened

[@VioletFem]

Phenomenal!!! I really appreciate all of the work and research that you put into this video. Thank you so much.

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much (and thank you for commenting too)

[@teebeedahbow]

I can't really accept your words at the end about suicide. We may have the sense that suicide is going through the head of someone we know, but it is no easy thing to intervene, especially if that person doesn't want you to intervene, and more especially if they have, as I think it fair to say McQueen had, a strong self-destructive streak. That side was surely part and parcel of his genius, hardly the first time someone so creative had an energy that came from some terrible force, and from the darkest of experiences. Thos things are also paradoxical gifts. And what really can we offer each other? 'Support', ''love'? I think that is sentimental as against the harsh reality of self-destruction. Ultimately, we are all individually responsible for continuing our own lives. No one can do this for us.

[@understitchYT]

I think perhaps you misunderstood what I meant. His close friends did a wonderful job at trying to reach him and were rebuffed, that was not their fault. But us as a public demanded too much from him, we asked too much of someone that needed to take a break, and he felt a pressure that he could not keep up with. That is who I was talking about, not the people who were close to him 🤍

[@teebeedahbow]

@@understitchYT I take your point, but I don't think it would have made any difference if 'we' had been listening better and had given him a break, even if I do accept your point that external pressures must have been close to unbearable. But what form would the break have taken? To say suddenly you are not a famous and in demand designer? It was what he demanded of himself that brought an early end, surely.

[@Beitownit]

@@teebeedahbow We'll never know if a break would've made a difference because he was never afforded the opportunity.

[@niki_bbb]

You did a tremendous work, love love love your channel ❤

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much!

[@beardreview]

Yes, that'll be interesting as when I spent time at the McQueen studio I felt he was a nice enough

[@understitchYT]

Oh you met him?

[@beardreview]

@@understitchYT a few year's after Isabellas passing, I felt taking in he'd lost someone he cared deeply about he was a decent enough man.

[@femiavolonto9236]

would absolutely love a 5hr version!!!

[@understitchYT]

Its definitely coming, Im trying to finish that and also a book version 🥰

[@scherzinger3]

Your voice is so good to hear

[@understitchYT]

Ah thank you so much, audio editing me not to sound like some kind of shrill rat was not easy 😅 (this is my voice, I mean like making the microphone sound more expensive than it is so the audio doesnt suck)

[@haylieerisggd2270]

omg please i would loveeee the alexander mcqueen 5 part series

[@understitchYT]

Itll be one video for sure, but I still need to finish the editing for it and get the book finished 🥰

[@sunshinepatsoph4219]

17 min and I realized I don't like AM

[@understitchYT]

he was a difficult person, but human

[@user-rn6bk3el8d]

The best ❤❤❤ I.N Straykids

[@understitchYT]

Oh definitely, what a talented person

[@user-rn6bk3el8d]

@@understitchYT sorry

[@dreamcatcher75418]

Cool video

[@understitchYT]

Thank you so much

[@taliashelest2168]

Yes to 5 hours!!!!!

[@vladislavachalei5120]

Like immediately, before even watching ;)❤

[@understitchYT]

A like well spent

[@ClickerFest]

Such a beautiful video. May he rest in peace and be remembered as a person. Sidenote, I fee like the company relationship between Lee and PPR seems eeriely similar to Ye's relationship with Adidas as well as his ongoing issues with mental health. I hate that great creative minds are often some of the most troubled

[@understitchYT]

Nah Kanye was erratic well before Yeezy and had nowhere near the amount of work put on McQueen (he may have felt a lot of pressure tho considering he thinks so highly of himself)

[@ClickerFest]

@@understitchYT you're right. You very accurately showed the building pressure throughout his life and I would love to watch the longer version

[@candace289]

Never heard this guy before

[@understitchYT]

As long as you enjoyed the video ^^