Alaïa Dress, 2000s

Azzedine Alaïa (1935-2017) was an independent force in fashion, now synonymous with the sensual glamour of his body-contouring creations. The designer was born to a family of wheat farmers in Tunisia and trained as a sculptor. In 1957, Alaïa moved to Paris work in Christian Dior’s atelier, only to leave five days later due to the escalation of the Algerian War. In the mid-60's, Alaïa set up his first studio, where he soon began to dress members of Parisian high society, including Greta Garbo. During this time, he periodically lent his talents to other designers, namely Guy Laroche and Yves Saint Laurent, for whom he helped to design the iconic Mondrian dresses. His status continued to grow with new high-profile clients such as Madonna, Tina Turner, and Naomi Campbell, a close friend and protégée of the designer since she was 16. In 1985, Alaïa dressed Grace Jones for her role as May Day in the James Bond film A View to Kill.
Known as the “King of Cling,” Alaïa’s ability to sculpt the female form was truly unmatched. He paid careful attention to how even the smallest of details could alter a silhouette. Working primarily in neutral palettes, he eschewed bright color as a distraction from the beauty of the wearer’s curves. Alaïa experimented with the structural properties of textiles, pioneering new uses for stretch fabrics and viscose. He also popularized now-ubiquitous silhouettes including bandage dresses, bodycon, and leggings. Alaïa was extremely devoted to his craft–– he never stopped personally cutting and sewing his own designs. His work was singular in technique. He remained fiercely independent to the fashion establishment, never conforming to the rules pushed upon him. In 2000, the Guggenheim Museum honored Alaïa with a solo retrospective.

Sleeveless, crewneck dress in white, diamond motif intarsia knit with stiff cellophane fringe throughout. Unlined. Left sideseam zipper closure.
Label: Alaïa
Size Label: 40
Country of Origin: Italy

Approximate Measurements:
Shoulders: 13.25"
Chest: 25"
Waist: 21.75"
Hips: 26"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 37.5"

This lot is located in Chicago.

Condition:

The overall condition is very good. Light discoloration at neckline and small, scattered pulls.

Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email us with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

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Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Tanner Branson

Associate Vice President, Head of Department, Luxury Handbags & Couture

[email protected]312 280 1212

Tanner Branson joined Freeman’s in 2022 where he provides streamlined services for couture clients evaluating and appraising luxury handbags and luxury goods. Mr. Branson brings over a decade of experience in the luxury market working for brands such as The Row and Brunello Cucinelli. He has also collaborated with celebrity clients to curate personal and public wardrobes and done commercial and editorial styling work for print and digital publications internationally. At Freeman’s Mr. Branson combines his endless passion for fashion history and luxury goods with his educational background. He has a BA in Fashion Business from Columbia College. Mr. Branson is affiliated with various auxiliary boards including the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum. Mr. Branson also appears on the top-rated PBS television program Antiques Roadshow.

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Alaïa Dress, 2000s

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