1992 Azzedine Alaia Black Stretch Knit Cold-Shoulder Halter Bodycon Maxi Dress

ID: 1007261

Size: small-medium

Condition: excellent

This ultra chic and totally iconic Azzedine Alaïa black stretch bodycon maxi dress from his beloved 1992 spring/summer collection. Alaïa built his reputation around celebrating the female form through masterful cutting and stretch fabrics, earning him the nickname 'King of Cling'. His designs became a sensation among celebrities and supermodels, establishing Alaïa as one of the era's most sought-after designers. This seductive hourglass dress is a perfect example of his genius.

Fashioned from a mid-weight slinky rayon blend knit in jet black, the fabric has fantastic stretch that hugs and molds to your body, smoothing the figure from every angle. The ankle-grazing length keeps the shape long and lean, while curved seams along the sides further accentuate your curves. The bodice is where the design really comes alive. A low cut cold-shoulder neckline dips across the bust, finished with a wide ribbed band and delicate scalloped edging. The wide ribbed band extends over the upper arms, while a separate broad halter strap rises from the bodice and wraps behind the neck. A second pair of slender straps wraps over the shoulders, creating a layered effect. This same distinctive detail appears on runway Look 87, while Christy Turlington famously modeled a similar striped version in the May 1992 issue of French Elle. The drama continues at the back, where the dress scoops deeply below the shoulder blades to leave an expanse of skin exposed. A concealed center-back zipper makes dressing easy without interrupting the silhouette. The hem is finished with the same scalloped edge, with a long rear slit that provides extra movement while revealing a flash of leg.

As fashion critic Suzy Menkes wrote, “If there were any justice in this fashion world, Azzedine Alaïa would be a worldwide household name, instead of a cult hero.” More than thirty years later, this dress makes her point beautifully—you get one of Alaïa's most recognizable designs where the entire focus is on the woman wearing it. 

Measurements
Marked a medium
(varied due to stretch)
Bust: 34-38 inches
Waist: 26-30 inches
Hips: 36-40 inches
Total Length: 55 inches

This Azzedine Alaïa dress is in beautiful condition with no noticeable rips, stains or holes.  Garment closes with a hidden zipper up the center back. A wearable investment piece that will continue to increase in value.