Today, the world lost one of the greatest geniuses of the fashion world. I don’t have words to express how influential and inspiring Alexander McQueen’s work has been to designers, celebrities, and all other lovers of fashion. At such a young age, he became so iconic that his work was plagiarized by a Project Runway contestant, and he essentially created the fashion enigma that is Lady Gaga (who not only wore head-to-toe McQueen in her infamous “Bad Romance” video, but debuted that song at McQueen’s runway show). He achieved more in his short life than any designer could dream of. Alexander, your work will truly live on forever.

The Angel

The craftsmanship that goes into every design is impeccable. He constantly uses poses and styling that bring so much more to the show than a mere stomp-and-turn ever could. This angelic ensemble looks like it is lit from heaven.

The Pre-Gaga

Whenever people are curious about why Lady Gaga is constantly covering her face and head with over-the-top accessories, I want to point them to photos like this. Years before “Just Dance” broke out, it seems like McQueen was designing with a true diva in mind. He dares to do what makes sense to almost no one but himself.

The Favorite

I think this is my personal favorite McQueen design. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything with such perfect color, shape, and volume, with perfect flowers that cascade perfectly across the model. It is breathtaking.

The Copycat

A McQueen original, and below it, a blatant rip-off by a designer who should have known better than to steal from someone so original. So many McQueen designs are instantly recognizable as his work; his design influence is so strong in each piece he creates. You have to be a real idiot to try and pass such unique work off as your own.

The Unforgettable

For me, this will always be McQueen’s most memorable look, and most memorable fashion show. The giant, disturbing dark lips he put on every model are haunting no matter how many times you see them. His Fall 2009 runway show was incredibly morose, provocative, and theatrical. The styling was bleak in a futuristic, post-apocalyptic way, and although my personal taste is not that extreme, I cannot get these looks out of my mind. They represent McQueen as a modern artist who transcends the fashion industry.

The Latest

And of course, his infamous Spring 2010 collection, which featured those insane, ten-inch, claw-like shoes, and a wild jungle/alien princess theme. He turns things that appear nonsensical into beauty.

The Future

McQueen’s latest collection is supposed to show this week, which is New York Fashion Week. Not sure what’s going to happen yet, but I’ll keep you posted.

I had so much trouble choosing just a few McQueen pieces to put in this post. There were literally dozens of incredible looks that he created over the years. The fashion world has lost an icon. May he rest in peace.