LOUIS VUITTON BY AZZEDINE ALAÏA, 1996AZZEDINE ALAÏA, 1990's

This limited edition Louis Vuitton Alma was designed in collaboration with Azzedine Alaïa for the Centenaire Collection that celebrated the 100th anniversary of the brand’s iconic Monogram pattern. The brand commissioned original creations of the classic monogram print bags from various iconic designers such as Isaac Mizrahi, Manolo Blahnik, Helmut Lang, Sybilla, Romeo Gigli, Vivienne Westwood, and has shown here, Alaïa. Four of the seven collaboration pieces from this special occasion are featured in this auction. Alaïa’s design was designed for the modern woman about town, featuring several chic leopard printed pony hair beauty accessories matched perfectly to this outlandish take on the brand’s classic Alma bag, a staple design since its 1992 release.

Azzedine Alaia is remembered as one of the most cherished and respected designers of his generation. His love of designing and respect for his industry’s history was a constant theme throughout his career and collections. His take on the shirtdress, a classic garment that has remained iconic and “chic” for decades, is a unique departure from his body-con dresses for which he is renowned. This cotton shirt dress features a pointed collar, buttoned French cuffs and high low hemline. The cinched rusched back is a nod to his renowned skater style silhouette and flatters the body with technical precision.