The twin of this jacket was Look 54 on the Fall 1989 runway and it was worn by none other then Beverly Peele. There is was styled with a crop pant, matching tights and gloves and a crisp white short underneath. Vogue's fashion journalist Laird Borrelli-Persson review offers an interesting glimpse of the early Alaia noting that 'Azzedine Alaïa was associated not only with a body-conscious look, but with a corner of Paris as well. The live/work space the designer built in the Marais, would become a welcoming mecca to models and clients, but it was unfinished when the designer presented his Fall 1989 show a month after the regular season ended. Alaïa famously presented on his own schedule, i.e. when he felt finished, and not according to a calendar date. According to The Los Angeles Times, the glass-roofed space was leaky, dampening the models as they paraded in a collection that underlined some of the tropes the designer had staked out as his own'.

Alaia's first ready to wear collection was in 1980 and just the year before he had opened his first boutiques in LA, NYC and Paris. That makes this a very early example of his work as he was just beginning the journey to branch outwards. The jacket is made from a rich velvet that is done in a deep deep blue. The choice of velvet gives the color extra depth and it also allows him to shape and sculpt it as he wished. The collar and front seams are finished with a wide, matte fabric in black for contrast. The collar is rounded and set so that it always sits slightly up and I love how the buttons glide through hidden set button holes set along the seam where the ribbon and velvet meet. On each hip is a pocket set with a button closure and they have a slight curving shape and are set to emphasize the hip. You can see the beginnings of that exaggerated hourglass silhouette that he would become known for in the shape of this piece. Beautifully tailored and perfect in every way. Excellent condition

Fully lined in a black silk satin and closes with the buttons down the front as seen. It appears to have never been worn, or worn very little and looks immaculate.

Sleeves: 23.5"
Shoulders: 15.5"
Bust: 17" flat across from side seam to side seam
Waist: 13" flat across from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18.5" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: 28" from neck to hem

Modern Sizing Equivalent: SML-MED

Item# S842

Reference photo: Fall 1989 Haute Ready-to-Wear Runway, Alaia, Look 54 on model Beverly Peele

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.