Alaïa Paris "CALZATURE" Donna Wedge in Snakeskin
About the Item
- Designer:
- Brand:
- Dimensions:Marked Size: 38.5 (EU)
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Scottsdale, AZ
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU1672787302
Azzedine Alaïa
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.
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Scottsdale, AZ
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 1 day of delivery.
- Louis Vuitton Boombox Pastels Monogram Nylon SneakersBy Louis VuittonLocated in Scottsdale, AZDo not miss out on these incredible brand new Louis Vuitton monogram high top sneakers! White leather is contrasted by the most gorgeous pastel shades of pink and blue signature Louis Vuitton monogram completed with orange and yellow accents as well as gold hardware. This is a classic high top style sneaker and also features an adjustable velcro strap at the top to allow you to change up how snug/loose you want the fit to be. These are such a fun statement sneaker that are also so wearable at the same time, pair these with a Miu Miu skirt and Moschino sweater for a playful look, or let these speak for themselves and wear these with your favorite vintage Levi's and a Prada leather jacket...Category
2010s Italian Shoes
- Tom Ford for Gucci Silver Strappy White Mink Leather Crystal Platform ShoesBy Tom Ford for GucciLocated in Scottsdale, AZStep into the world of opulence and high fashion with these extraordinary Tom Ford for Gucci Silver Strappy White Mink Leather Crystal Platform Shoes. These shoes, hailing from the iconic F/W 2004 Collection, are a testament to Tom Ford's creative genius and Gucci's timeless style. These strappy silver heels are adorned with Swarovski crystals, adding a dazzling and captivating sparkle to your every step. Each crystal is meticulously placed to create a breathtaking effect. These shoes feature luxurious white mink, a rare and sought-after material that exudes unparalleled elegance and comfort. The use of real mink makes these shoes a true collector's item. The wrap style ankle design not only adds a touch of sensuality to your look but also ensures a secure and comfortable fit. The removable ankle ties provide versatility, allowing you to customize your style. Crafted in Italy to the highest standards of quality and artistry, these shoes are a masterpiece of Italian fashion and footwear expertise. These shoes are Italian size 37.5 B (US size 7.5), designed to fit you perfectly. The silver-tone fur mink sandals are a rare find from a memorable Gucci collection. Elevate your footwear game to unparalleled heights with these Tom Ford for Gucci platform shoes...Category
Early 2000s Italian Shoes
- Nike Blazer Mid ’77 Flyleather Ruohan Wang Multicolor SneakersLocated in Scottsdale, AZVibrant and unique high top Nike sneakers circa 2020 in collaboration with Berlin artist Ruohan Wang. Wang presents an elevated take on Nike's classic blazer style sneaker with stunning Japanese inspired artwork which draws in the eye. One of the coolest parts about this shoe is Wang's eco-friendly approach to the production as these are composed of at least 50% recycled leather...Category
2010s Shoes
- Louis Vuitton 2000s Fuchsia Satin Pumps With Textured Gold HeelsBy Louis VuittonLocated in Scottsdale, AZLooking to make a statement? Well the perfect shoes have arrived! Circa recent 2000s, these Louis Vuitton fuchsia satin heels feature various hues of fuchsia on the straps and a scul...Category
2010s Italian Shoes
- Amina Muaddi Holli Slingback Glitter PumpsLocated in Scottsdale, AZThese Amina Muaddi glitter pumps are the perfect way to spice up any outfit! Stunning multicolor glittery slingback pumps in one of Amina Muaddis most coveted silhouettes! The pointe...Category
2010s Italian Shoes
- Christian Dior 2000s Neoprene Lucite Etoile PumpsBy Christian DiorLocated in Scottsdale, AZWe know you're wishing for these Dior pumps! Circa recent 2000s, these pumps are crafted from black neoprene and feature "Dior" at the heel, a pointed toe and a 4" asymmetrical lucite wedge heel with silver...Category
2010s Italian Shoes
- Giuseppe Zanotti, Metallic sandalsBy Giuseppe ZanottiLocated in AMSTERDAM, NLGiuseppe Zanotti, Metallic sandals with python print. The item is in good condition and comes with box and dustbag. Giuseppe Zanotti, Metallic sandals with python print. The item is...Category
2010s Shoes
- Valentino Brown Red Leayher Heel Shoes Decollete 80sBy Valentino Miss VLocated in Brindisi, BtValentino Garavani Miss V vintage 80s women's shoes. Brown and red decollete, ankle strap closure, 100% leather. Made in Italy. New without tag. Siz...Category
1980s Italian Shoes
- Christian Louboutin Viera Strass Flat Lune Grey Crystal Sneakers Sz 39By Christian LouboutinLocated in Paradise Island, BSAn iconic model, the sneaker Vieira Strass is dressed this season in light-colored suede studded with strass and glitter. Fully lined in nude leather and has a red rubber sole.Category
2010s Italian Shoes
- Christian Louboutin Viera Strass Flat Lune Grey Crystal Sneakers Sz 41By Christian LouboutinLocated in Paradise Island, BSAn iconic model, the sneaker Vieira Strass is dressed this season in light-colored suede studded with strass and glitter. Fully lined in nude leather and has a red rubber sole.Category
2010s Italian Shoes
- White Chanel Heeled Leather SandalsBy ChanelLocated in New York, NYWhite leather ruched heeled sandals by Chanel. Circa early 2000s. Lacquered heels. 0.5" platform height, 4" heel height. Designer Size: 37 US Recommended Size: 7Category
21st Century and Contemporary European Shoes
- Grey Gianvito Rossi Alina Pointed-Toe Ankle Boots Size 39By Gianvito RossiLocated in New York, NYGrey leather Alina pointed-toe ankle boots by Gianvito Rossi. Zip closures at inner sides. 5.75" shaft height, 3.5" heel height. Designer Size: 39 US Recommended Size: 9Category
21st Century and Contemporary European Shoes