Azzedine Alaïa: Sculpting Fashion

This is the first major US retrospective of Azzedine Alaïa, one of fashion’s most celebrated couturiers. Born in Tunisia and based in Paris, Alaïa trained as a sculptor before working in fashion. He became famous for his ability to shape and mold fabric into clothes that made women feel both powerful and beautiful. He was beloved by supermodels, including Naomi Campbell, Stephanie Seymour, and Christy Turlington, and performers such as Tina Turner and Grace Jones. What set Alaïa apart was his dedication to construction. He was committed to making each garment himself, from pattern-making to cutting to fitting. He worked outside the traditional fashion calendar, presenting collections only when he felt they were truly ready. Admire the craftsmanship of his most stunning designs up close and personal. Plus, see a selection of fashions from Alaïa’s personal collection that inspired his work, including designs by legends Cristóbal Balenciaga, Elsa Schiaparelli, and Madeleine Vionnet.