alaïa afore alaïa

Unveiling Azzedine Alaïa’s story before his milestone 1982 show, this book offers a never-before-seen look into one of fashion’s most enigmatic icons.

Azzedine Alaïa (1935–2017) was regarded as a contemporary fashion genius. Edited by his closest friend, Carla Sozzani, this new volume Accompanying an exhibition at the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation, presents an unprecedented view into Alaïa’s early life and career, from his native Tunisia and 1956 arrival in Paris to his breakthrough 1982 New York show.

With texts and interviews by Laurence Benaïm, and Emanuele Coccia, directed by Carla Sozzani and Olivier Saillard, this book includes the testimonies of Azzedine Alaïa's relatives. Prosper Assouline, Didier Grumbach, Dany Saval, Carlyne Cerf de Dudzeele, Serge Lutens, Edgar Morin, Thierry Mugler, Claude Perdriel and Dominique Zehrfuss share their memories of the great couturier.

This unique publication delves into rare archival materials, private photographs, and prominent publications to powerfully illustrate the fascinating journey of a fashion legend. Quotes by Alaïa punctuate each chapter, allowing the reader to enter into the heart of his intimacy.