The passing of Azzedine Alaïa, the well-known Franco-Tunisian fashion designer, on November 18th has left a void in the fashion industry. However, his legacy will live on through the efforts of his eponymous fashion house. In order to commemorate his life and work, the fashion house has planned several initiatives for the upcoming year.
One of the highlights of the planned tributes is an exhibition titled “Azzedine Alaïa: I am a Couturier”. It will be held at the creator’s workshop and art gallery at 18 rue de la Verrerie in Paris starting in January. Olivier Saillard, former director of the Palais Galliera, will curate the exhibition that will showcase the most iconic pieces created by the designer throughout his career. This exhibition will provide an in-depth look into Alaïa’s history and will allow fashion enthusiasts to appreciate his craftsmanship and creativity.
In addition to the exhibition, the Alaïa fashion house will present the latest women’s collections and accessories as a tribute to the designer during the fashion weeks in Paris in January and March. This will give fans and admirers of Alaïa’s work the opportunity to see the brand’s new creations and pay homage to the talented designer.
Furthermore, the Design Museum in London will also honor Alaïa with an exhibition titled “Azzedine Alaïa: The Couturier” from May to October 2018. This exhibition, curated by Alaïa himself before his passing, will display around sixty outfits chosen by the designer. It will provide an insight into his design process and showcase his unique vision.
Aside from these exhibitions, the establishment of the Alaïa foundation is another significant initiative to honor the late designer. The foundation will be located at the same address as Alaïa’s workshop and will carry on the work initiated by him and his partner, Christoph von Weyhe, through the Azzedine Alaïa Association. The foundation will feature a collection of the designer’s most exquisite pieces, a library with books on fashion and culture, and host exhibitions highlighting design and the history of fashion.
An important aspect of the foundation’s mission is to preserve French expertise in the fashion industry. To achieve this, the foundation will support emerging talents through scholarships, ensuring that Alaïa’s legacy continues to inspire and nurture new generations of designers.
Overall, the exhibition and foundation dedicated to Azzedine Alaïa serve as a testament to his influential role in the fashion world. They allow fans and newcomers alike to appreciate his unique talent and contribution to the industry. Through these initiatives, Alaïa’s work will continue to inspire and shape the world of fashion.
Useful links:
1. Design Museum exhibition
2. Alaïa foundation website
