Even in 1992 Azzedine Alaia was a pricey proposition - Elle reported that year that his collection was "extraordinarily pricey with cardigans run around $1,400 and dresses between $2,500 and $3,500". Unheard fo pricing in 1992. In a 10 page spread (some of the photos are referenced here) he speaks of his " delights in the space-age fabric he used for his Spring `92 collection (he calls the NASA-developed material "Relax" for its purported ability to act as a screen against microwave emissions)". Amongst the many pieces made of this new fabric were the body clinging bandage like dresses of which this is one. Versions of this piece were featured prominently both in the Alaia exhibit at the Groninger Museum and accompanying book 'Alaia- Azzedine Alaia in the 21st Century,'.
The knit is made to hug and exaggerate your every curve. The dress is cut long and lean and its vertical stripes just add to that illusion. The neckline sits low across the bust for the suggestion of a Victorian corset in cut and I love the off shoulder strap detail with its second strap that curves around the top. There is no defined waist - it glides past the bust and down and around the hips to mid-calf. A slit at the back allows you to walk - barely. It is utterly amazing and sexy as hell. Excellent condition with one small flaw as noted below
Unlined and made of his signature "bandage" knit - this one a cotton mix. It closes with a hidden set zipper up the back. Tagged a vintage Alaia medium. There is one faint mark on the front just off center and about upper thigh height. It may come out with additional cleaning. The fabric has stretch
Bust: 13.5-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 11-14" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 15-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 48" from shoulder to hem
Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED
Item# DD2333
Reference Photos: Tyra Banks for Alaia S/S 1992 from fashionanthology.com / Christy Turlington in "Chez Azzedine Alaia" (French Elle, May 18, 1992) Photographed by Gilles Bensimon. Image from the book 'Alaia- Azzedine Alaia in the 21st Century,' the accompanying exhibit book for the Alaia exhibit at the Groninger Museum.
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.
