Inferno by Kent Baker documents the unforgettable Fall/Winter 1996 "Dante" show by Alexander McQueen, one of the most iconic and controversial fashion presentations of the '90s. Through a series of photographs, personal insights, and archival material, Baker captures the raw energy and creative chaos surrounding McQueen’s darkly theatrical vision. The "Dante" collection was a reflection on themes of war, religion, and death, held in the haunting atmosphere of Christ Church in Spitalfields—a venue that amplified the gothic and rebellious undertones of McQueen's work.
The book immerses the reader in the backstage frenzy, giving a visceral sense of McQueen’s relentless pursuit of artistic perfection and emotional intensity. Baker’s lens not only highlights the intricate details of McQueen’s craftsmanship—ripped lace, military tailoring, and the powerful juxtaposition of beauty and violence—but also reveals the emotional toll the show took on the designer. Inferno is a visual narrative of McQueen’s rise, capturing his audacity and defiance in a world that both adored and feared his talent. Through Baker’s documentation, this pivotal moment in McQueen’s career is immortalized as a cultural flashpoint in fashion history.
