Lee Alexander McQueen, a beacon of the fashion world, was born on March 17, 1969, into a modest household in London's Lewisham district. The son of Ronald, a cab driver, and Joyce, a social science teacher, McQueen, affectionately known as "Lee", was supported along with his five siblings on their humble earnings. From a tender age, Lee recognized his homosexuality and faced extensive teasing from his peers, hinting at the turmoil that would accompany his luminous talent.

At 16, with formal education behind him, McQueen entered the esteemed realm of Savile Row. Here, in the heart of London's Mayfair, he first apprenticed with Anderson and Shephard, and later with the illustrious Gieves and Hawkes. Seeking to expand his horizon, he then ventured into the theatrical realm with costume designers Angels and Bermans. The dramatic flair acquired here would become a hallmark of his future fashion collections.

After a brief, enriching spell in Milan as a design assistant to Romeo Gigli, McQueen returned to London. He enrolled at Central Saint Martin's College of Art & Design, earning his M.A. in fashion design in 1992. His graduation collection, tinged with a macabre Jack the Ripper theme, was acquired in full by the legendary London stylist, Isabella Blow. This began a deep friendship and collaboration, with Blow championing McQueen's prodigious talent.

Launching his own brand, McQueen captivated the fashion scene with his audacious "bumster" pants, challenging traditional silhouettes. His meteoric rise saw him helm the storied French couture house, Givenchy, by 1996. But the relationship was tempestuous. Despite winning British Designer of the Year thrice during this period, McQueen felt his creativity was stifled, often expressing his discontent. Yet, he acknowledged his lack of commitment, wishing for an opportunity to redefine Givenchy's identity.

The new millennium brought fresh promise. In 2000, Gucci acquired a majority stake in McQueen's brand, infusing it with the means to grow. By 2003, not only did McQueen garner the accolades of International Designer of the Year and a Commander of the British Empire, but he also expanded his brand's footprint globally, including cities like New York, Milan, and Las Vegas. This period post-Givenchy witnessed McQueen at his creative zenith; his 2006 Fall/Winter show mesmerized attendees with a surreal hologram of supermodel Kate Moss.

1. A Radical Approach to Tailoring: Lee Alexander McQueen's initial foray into the world of Savile Row endowed him with a keen understanding of tailoring, which would later become one of the defining features of his work. McQueen redefined the boundaries of fashion, juxtaposing the precision of tailoring with audacious designs. His "bumster" trousers, which challenged the conventions of waistlines, were emblematic of this rebellious spirit, offering a new way to think about silhouette and structure.

2. Nature and Romanticism: Beyond the edgy, often avant-garde aesthetics, McQueen's designs were deeply influenced by nature. This was evident in collections like "Plato’s Atlantis" (Spring/Summer 2010) where he envisioned a future world submerged underwater, producing digital prints inspired by marine life. His garments frequently referenced the beauty, fragility, and sometimes the cruelty of the natural world, creating a poignant narrative that resonated with many.

3. Theatricality and Spectacle: McQueen's runway shows were legendary not just for the garments displayed but for the atmospheric, and often provocative, storytelling. In his Fall/Winter 2006 show, a life-sized hologram of Kate Moss, dressed in ethereal ripples of fabric, appeared as a spectral vision, creating a fusion of technology, art, and fashion. McQueen's shows were more than just displays; they were emotive experiences.

4. Exploring Cultural Narratives: McQueen's designs were global in their perspective. He often delved deep into different cultures, drawing inspiration from places like Africa, India, and Japan. His Spring/Summer 2000 collection, "Eshu", was inspired by the Yoruba god from Nigeria, exploring themes of colonialism and cultural appropriation. By integrating these diverse influences, McQueen questioned societal norms and celebrated the richness of global heritage.

5. Evocative and Controversial Themes: Never one to shy away from controversy, McQueen's collections often dealt with profound and sometimes dark themes. From the chilling "Highland Rape" collection of 1995, which commented on the historical violence against Scotland, to the "Voss" show in 2001 that touched on beauty standards and mental health, McQueen's designs prompted audiences to engage in deeper reflection about the world around them.

6. Legacy of Craftsmanship and Innovation: While McQueen's narrative-driven approach was groundbreaking, the foundation of his designs lay in impeccable craftsmanship. From intricate lacework to the pioneering use of materials like silicone and feathers, McQueen's attention to detail was unparalleled. Furthermore, he embraced technological advancements, like 3D printing, pushing fashion into uncharted territories. This blend of tradition and innovation continues to inspire designers worldwide.

McQueen's multifaceted approach to fashion, his thematic depth, and his exceptional craftsmanship make him an enduring icon in the fashion world. The added paragraphs shed light on the design sensibilities and themes that made him a force to reckon with.