Last Saturday, fashion has lost yet another of its greats.
Azzedine Alaïa passed away at 77, leaving behind a legacy that’s worth looking back to.
This post won’t be enough to profile the entirety of his mastery, genius, and life, but damn me if I didn’t! I’ve always been a big fan of his well-sculpted silhouettes. There’s a difference between well-fitting and figure-hugging, one of which Azzedine masterfully straddled throughout his career. While everyone else was concerned with tradition, Azzedine defied the status quo. Herve Leger can take a seat now, ’cause Azzedine–the real pioneer of bodycons–is here to stand out from the competition.
Azzedine was a sculptor first
The legendary designer got his first taste of working with cloth and fabric as a sculptor of one. Knowing that he wouldn’t ever make a traditional sculptor, he signed up for a short stint in Dior which eventually cut him off due to not having his papers in order. He later designed for private clients, keeping him their best-kept secret.
Naomi Campbell and Azzedine Alaïa were a tough pair to beat
Naomi’s stature and beauty have inspired the designer through the years. She’s been sporting Alaïa and running for the label for years, she even has her own ’30s modern steel-framed hospital cot in Azzedine’s studio.
He’s a collector of couture
Hidden at home by a crimson velvet curtain, his collection of vintage couture (think Balenciaga and Dior) could make anyone envious. Some are kept in climate-controlled vaults, and some include his past work.
Credits to Vogue for the information.
