Alexander McQueen Fall 2000 PFW: Eshu’s Influence

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by brownfashionagal

Inspired by the Yoruba deity Eshu, was an exploration of African aesthetics fused with Victorian influences. The show was undeniably striking, showcasing dramatic silhouettes like acid-wash denim hoop dresses and textural contrasts that demanded attention. Björk’s endorsement of one such piece highlighted the collection’s avant-garde appeal.

The use of traditional Yoruba elements, such as scarification motifs, horsehair headpieces, and beadwork, added depth and historical resonance. McQueen’s references to African rituals, from Yoruba masks to body modification, were rich in storytelling but sometimes veered into a chaotic mix of cultural symbolism. For instance, pairing Kenyan beading with Mursi lip plates and Victorian details created moments of brilliance, yet also felt jarring and disconnected.

While the collection aimed to celebrate African traditions, it occasionally fell into the trap of aestheticizing without fully grounding the cultural depth. The tension between lightness and weight—freedom and rootedness—was palpable but unresolved.