Master Couturier, King of Cling: legendary fashion designer Azzedine Alaïa (1935–2017) is known by many names, each referring to his unparalleled ability to mold fabric onto the female form in unexpected and radical ways. The Tunisian-born designer spent his entire life in relentless pursuit of a wholly distinctive and most-flattering fit.
“For me, fashion is the body,” said Alaïa. “I make clothes; women make fashion.”
Alaïa is credited with inventing the supermodel through his exclusive fashion shows, the body-con dress — which, quite literally, hugs the body and emphasizes and embraces every curve — and pioneering what industry professionals have taken to calling “slow fashion.” The designer openly rejected empty, of-the-moment fads as well as the structure of biannual seasons and instead took his time, unhurried by press and releasing collections at his own pace. Most importantly, Alaïa was a visionary when it came to traditional notions of femininity and sexuality. At a time when loose, soft silhouettes were the norm, Alaïa’s sexy, waist-cinching hourglass and body-con outfits were shocking.
Alaïa’s “body-conscious clothes,” wrote fashion critic Suzy Menkes, “seemed a deliberate challenge — throwing down a sexist gauntlet in a feminist world.”
While powerful women such as Madonna, Michelle Obama, Naomi Campbell and Christy Turlington wear Alaïa’s creations today, his origins were remarkably humble.
Born to a farming family, Alaïa always had a creative streak. As a young boy, he would flip through women’s fashion magazines and quickly became interested in the design of women's clothing. He went on to study sculpture at the School of Fine Arts in Tunis and later worked as a tailor for a dressmaker before he found work creating garments based on Parisian haute couture designs. The combination of his classical training in sculpture and practical experience as a tailor convinced Alaïa that fashion was his calling. In 1957, he moved to Paris and worked for Christian Dior for less than a week before being fired. From there, Alaïa secured a job with Guy Laroche and opened his own maison in the 1970s.
At his core, Alaïa was a couturier who cut and sewed his samples himself. He also experimented with zips, seams, unexpected materials, textures, animal prints and floral patterns like an artist. Today, Alaïa’s clothes look untouched by the passage of time and the various trends that have materialized since their debut; they are as fresh, stylish and stunning as ever. His garments are pop-culture icons in their own right: Cher Horowitz, played by Alicia Silverstone in 1995’s Clueless, exasperated with a perpetrator holding her at gunpoint, declares, “But this is an Alaïa!”
Vintage Alaïa evening dresses, skirts and other attire continue to influence contemporary designers such as Nicolas Ghesquière and Hervé Léger. Not only are his clothes timeless in their glamour, but they also represent the groundbreaking vision of an artist, one who was known to proclaim, “I am not a designer. I am a couturier.”
Find a collection of Azzedine Alaïa day dresses, suits, jackets and more on 1stDibs.
AZZEDINE ALAIA 1980's Vintage Taupe Oversized Swing Jacket Coat
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in San Fransisco, CA
This 1980's Azzedine Alaïa jacket is made from soft, drapey rayon in a versatile taupe shade. It has a relaxed, oversized fit with full slightly cropped sleeves, an open front and a ...
1986 AZZEDINE ALAIA charcoal wool gabardine RUNWAY coat with seamed back
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in San Fransisco, CA
This is a sharply structured Azzedine Alaïa runway jacket from 1986, cut in charcoal wool gabardine. It has a long, double-breasted silhouette with a strong, sculpted shoulder line a...
1980s Alaïa Oversized Glossed Nylon Vintage Trench Coat Jacket Archive Piece
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in San Diego, CA
A dramatic and incredibly rare Azzedine Alaïa Paris oversized trench coat crafted in a textured, glossed nylon that moves like liquid. This archive-level piece embodies the powerful, voluminous silhouette that defined Alaïa’s late 1980s outerwear, blending masculine trench vocabulary with his signature sculptural sensuality. The coat features an exaggerated double-breasted front, wide notched lapels, and beautifully draped dolman sleeves that taper into a clean cuff. Its fluid, elongated cut creates an elegant column effect, while the interior construction includes generous facing panels that easily allow for adding a custom belt, or styling the coat with a standard belt of your choice. The hip pockets are exceptionally large and practical, an iconic Alaïa touch. Model in video is US Size 6 and 5’8 feet tall. The pictured 90s Donna Karan sheer sequin top and 90s Donna Karan sequin trouser pants are also available in my 1stDibs Shop. Condition is good, with a few tiny pin-size holes hidden under the collar that are not visible when worn. Due to the intentionally oversized shape, the coat accommodates a wide range of sizes and body types. Made in Italy Measurements: Bust: 48 inches Waist: 50 inches Hips: 62 inches Length (top back shoulder to hem): 50 inches (Provide your exact measurements here and I’ll format them perfectly.) Fabric: Glossed nylon Closure: Double breasted buttons Label: ALAÏA PARIS (white early label) Era: Fall Winter 1988 Fit: Oversized, flexible through multiple sizes Condition: Good; tiny hidden pin holes beneath collar Azzedine Alaïa, Alaïa trench coat, Alaïa outerwear, vintage Alaïa coat...
1991 AZZEDINE ALAIA leopard printed calf fur RUNWAY jacket
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Rare Azzedine Alaïa leopard-print calf hair jacket from the Fall/Winter 1991 runway collection. The piece is cut in a cropped silhouette with a sharp, structured shape that sits clos...
1991 AZZEDINE ALAIA leopard calf fur jacket
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Rare Azzedine Alaïa leopard-print calf hair jacket from the Fall/Winter 1991 collection. Designed in a cropped silhouette, the piece is sharply tailored with a structured shape that ...
Vintage 1990's Azzedine Alaïa Padded Shawl Collar Long Coat
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in London, GB
A vintage Azzedine Alaïa black padded long shawl coat with leather corset belt. This amazing coat features a dramatic volume with sculptural tailoring. Crafted in a lustrous black pa...
ALAIA black leather TRENCH COAT Jacket 38
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in Zürich, CH
Alaia trench coat in black lambskin. With wide notch colar, belt loops at the waist, two flap pockets on the front sides, box pleat on the back, and ...
Azzedine Alaia black varnished pony hair trench coat, fw 2014
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in London, GB
Presenting an exceptional Azzedine Alaia trench coat, a true collector's gem from the autumn-winter 2014 collection. This trench coat showcases the l...
Alaïa Neuf Manteau Laine Marine FR40 Dark Navy Wool Duffle Coat UK12 US10 NWT
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in PARIS, FR
Alaïa duffle coat in thick, navy blue (almost black) whipcord wool, oversized silhouette, round neck fastened with three leather trim buckles, large hood that can be worn over the he...
Alaïa Chevre Cachemire Black Cropped fur ! Flattering cut size FR 36
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in KRAKÓW, PL
Alaïa Cropped goat cashmere fur! Size FR 36 Original Price €5000 The flattering cut makes the body look slimmer, luxurious material makes piece looks really expensive and elegant.
Alaïa Seamed Knit Moto Fringe Jacket FR44
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in Brossard, QC
Fitted moto silhouette while fringe trims the hem and cuffs for a touch of playful movement. Round neck Long sleeves Front zip close Fringe trim Viscose/polyester/polyamide Dry clean...
1989 AZZEDINE ALAIA suede laser cut RUNWAY coat
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in San Fransisco, CA
This is a 1989 Azzedine Alaïa runway coat that shows exactly why Alaia was so admired for turning simple materials into something sculptural. It’s made from a soft, camel-toned sued...
1992 AZZEDINE ALAIA black chenille runway robe coat
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Azzedine Alaïa black chenille robe coat, runway 1992 An exceptionally rare piece from Alaïa’s 1992 collection, this coat is made from a rich, jet-black chenille with a soft, almost ...
Azzedine Alaia Chocolate Brown Tibetan Lamb Fur Coat, fw 2006
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in London, GB
▪ Azzedine Alaia Chocolate Brown Tibetan Lamb Fur Coat ▪ Creative Director: Azzedine Alaia ▪ Fall-Winter 2006 ▪ Meticulously crafted from luscious chocolate brown Tibetan lamb fur ▪ ...
Alaia Black Coat With Metallic Gold Embroidery
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Resurrection Vintage is excited to offer a vintage black Azzedine Alaia soft black wool coat featuring intricate metallic gold embroidery, Alaia's signature a-line waist, double-brea...
Double-breasted coat in denim with cut-work and branded snap Alaïa
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Double-breasted coat in denim with cut-work and branded snap. Fabric composition: 100% cotton. Black rayon lining inside the pockets. Cut-work on the body and sleeves. SIZE L
1990S Alaia Red Wool Empire Waisted Coat
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in New York, NY
1990S Alaia Red Wool Empire Waisted Coat MORPHEW VINTAGE represents the finest pieces of fashions past. Sourced from across the globe, dating as far back as a century. Each piece is...
Alaïa coat winter 2021
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
ALAÏA - (Made in France) Sheep and lamb leather coat with fur and entirely embroidered with a chocolate-brown pattern. Size 40FR indicated. 2021 Fall-Winter Collection. Condition: V...
Size: S enquire for exact measurments
Paul Daunay Couture silk and wool dress and coat ensemble, c. 1952-57
By Paul Daunay
Located in London, GB
Presenting an exquisite and exceptionally rare Paul Daunay couture fall daytime ensemble, a true gem hailing from the era of circa 1952-57. This ensemble is a stunning showcase of ar...
Isabel Marant Etoile Lamb Curly Shearling Bomber Jacket
Located in Moreno Valley, CA
Isabel Marant Etoile Lamb-Fur Shearling Jacket. Isabel Marant Etoile jacket in off-white lamb curly shearling long and curly. Etoile Isabel Mara...
Size: One Size
Missoni Multicolour Knit Cropped Poncho
By Missoni
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Missoni is known for their iconic and playful knits and this cropped poncho is an emblem of the brand. The cropped length gives a fresh take on a poncho and the fringe details adds a...
Vintage White Oversized Opera Coat
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Add a little drama to your wardrobe with our incredible vintage opera coat! You don't need to be headed to the opera to enjoy a piece as amazing as ...
1970's Tan Shearling Embroidered Coat
Located in Toronto, Ontario
Winter warm 1970's tan sheepskin shearling fur coat by San Francisco manufacturer Furs by Max. Beautiful embroidery throughout the front and seams of coat. Coat hits right below the ...
1960s Dynasty Beige Silk Flower Asian Gorgeous Vintage 60s Swing Jacket
By Dynasty
Located in San Diego, CA
Stunning 1960s DYNASTY beige silk Asian swing jacket! Luxurious soft silk holds shape nicely. Chic bell sleeves. Knotted silk buttons up the bodice. Has a pocket on each side of the ...
Size: Medium-Large
Oleg Cassini Vintage Beaded Silk Jacket, Floral Design
By Oleg Cassini, Black Tie by Oleg Cassini
Located in New Hope, PA
Oleg Cassini designed this beautiful beaded jacket using gold bugle beads to edge the floral design at the center front, neckline, cuffs and hemline. The flowers on the body of the...
Size: No size tag.
Bonnie Cashin for Sills Vintage Herringbone Coat
By Bonnie Cashin, Bonnie Cashin for Sills
Located in Oakland, CA
This coat has the "A Bonnie Cashin Design for Sills and Co" label which I believe dates to the 1960s. Giant herringbone pattern in what I believe is wool or a wool blend with black l...
Pierre Cardin Wool Princess Coat with Fox Fur Collar, Circa 1970s
By Pierre Cardin
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Pierre Cardin camel beige wool princess coat fit and flare silhouette notch lapel fox fur collar princess seams banded waist blush pink buttons at waist & sleeve cuffs two button clo...
Size: L/ XL
Faux fur coat with animal pattern MATIMI
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Faux fur coat with animal pattern. Main fabric composition: 66% polyacrylic, 18% polyester, 16% modal. Lining composition: 100% polyester. Pocket on both side. Half-belt on the back...
Victorian Grey & Black Wool Velvet Men's Frock Coat With Metal Braiding And Gol
Located in New York, NY
Victorian Grey & Black Wool Velvet Men's Frock Coat With Metal Braiding And Gold Buttons
1970s Voluminous Red Fox Fur Cropped Jacket with Natural Silver Fox Panels
Located in Morongo Valley, CA
1970s fox fur jacket constructed from alternating panels of red fox and natural silver fox. Features a dramatic shawl-style collar and vertical fur layout. Fully lined interior, mean...
Alaïa long white jacket 1985s
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
ALAÏA - (Made in France) Long white rayon jacket. Size 38FR. A Collection circa 1985 under the artistic direction of Azzedine Alaïa. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Leng...
Alaïa 'skater' coat Winter 1992
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
ALAÏA - (Made in France) Mid-length black blended cotton coat with a fitted waist and a skater skirt cut. Size 38FR indicated. 1992 Fall-Winter Collection under the artistic directio...
Azzedine Alaïa Voluminous Black Coat — c. 1988
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in CAPELLE AAN DEN IJSSEL, ZH
An incredible piece from the late 1980s Alaïa era, showcasing the sculptural volume and precise tailoring that made him “the King of Cling,” even when working with oversized silhou...
88 AZZEDINE ALAIA black voluminous skirted RUNWAY coat
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Very rare Azzedine Alaïa black coat from the Fall/Winter 1988 runway collection. This striking design features a cinched waist with a self-tie belt that releases into a dramatically ...
Alaïa long white jacket 1985s
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
ALAÏA - (Made in France) Long white rayon jacket. Size 38FR. A Collection circa 1985 under the artistic direction of Azzedine Alaïa. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Leng...
AZZEDINE ALAÏA F/W 1986 Collectors Runway Coat FR42
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in Berlin, BE
Brand: Alaïa Designer: Azzedine Alaïa Collection: Fall Winter 1986 Fabric: 100% Wool Color: Black Size: FR42 Made in France Azzedine Alaïa was one of the most influential designers of the 1980s, known for his construction and his ability to shape the body. Throughout this period he developed a distinct language of tailoring, characterised by strong shoulders, sculpted waists, and elongated lines. This runway coat is from Alaïa’s Fall Winter 1986 collection. Made from black wool, it features an oversized dropped shoulder, a deep V-front and a double-breasted closure. Featuring gathering at the back that adds to the sculptural silhouette and tailored lines that became central to Alaïa’s work. A rare and sought after coat from one of Alaïa’s most iconic collections. Size Information: Marked Size FR42 Measurements: Shoulders 52cm Bust 48cm Waist 38cm Hip 54.5cm Length 95cm This Azzedine Alaïa coat...
Alaia Veste Parka bi matiere FR36 Oversized Black Leather Canvas Coat UK8 US6
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in PARIS, FR
Alaïa parka in black polyamide and silk (35%) canvas, straight cut with an oversized silhouette, wide collar covered in black leather also featured on the shoulders and upper back, f...
Alaïa wool coat
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
ALAÏA - (Made in France) Long alpaca coat with white cotton. Size 42FR indicated. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Shoulder width: 55 cm - Sleeve length: 60 cm - Length: ...
1986 AZZEDINE ALAIA charcoal wool gabardine RUNWAY coat with seamed back
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Azzedine Alaïa Rare Runway Coat, Fall/Winter 1986 An exceptionally rare and important example from Azzedine Alaïa’s celebrated Fall/Winter 1986 collection, as seen on the runway and...
Size: FR 40 (fits smaller)
1985 AZZEDINE ALAIA black gabardine wool RUNWAY coat
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Exceptionally rare black wool coat designed by Azzedine Alaïa for the 1985 runway collection. This sculptural piece demonstrates Alaïa’s celebrated command of proportion and structur...
Alaia Blue Grey Tailored Coat With Black Buttons
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Resurrection Vintage is thrilled to offer a vintage blue-grey Azzedine Alaia tailored coat with black buttons featuring a tailored silhouette with a nipped waist, flared skirt, and a...
1988 AZZEDINE ALAIA black voluminous skirted RUNWAY coat
By Azzedine Alaïa
Located in San Fransisco, CA
Very rare Azzedine Alaïa black coat from the Fall/Winter 1988 runway collection. This striking design features a cinched waist with a self-tie belt that releases into a dramatically ...