Fall 1988 Documented Alaia Red Corset Style Jacket
This iconic corset-style jacket forms an important part of Alaïa’s history. For Fall 1988, Azzendine Alaïa’s muse Naomi Campbell walked the runway modelling the jumpsuit version. Fondation Azzedine Alaïa exhibited it for a major retrospective of the designer’s work and a dress with the same corset-esque lacing is held in New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art’s permanent collection. The Met states:
“Azzedine Alaïa focuses on the challenges inherent in the transformation of two-dimensional textiles into sculptural three-dimensional garments. His sharp, engineered tailoring results in armour-like silhouettes typical of the power dressing of the 1980s, yet his use of body-clinging and tactile fabrics betray a more sensual approach to the body. This corseted, woollen little black dress with a double-breasted closure and wide lapels fuses masculine and feminine dress codes into a garment characteristic of Alaïa's commanding signature.”
Tailored from a lightweight wool in the rich burgundy-red hue that became a signature of the house, it is a play on a suit jacket silhouette. The shape is elongated and closed at the bottom so that it has to be put on over the wearer’s head. Like a blazer, there are wide-lapels, a V-neckline and three pockets; a patch pocket at the breast and two larger patch pockets at the hips which are cut at an angle to mirror the curves of the waist. This is where Alaïa’s talents lay; cutting to flatter the female form. The stitching around the waist recalls the stitching seen in corsetry, cinching the waist and emphasising the wearer’s curves. The front is double-breasted with seven rows of tiny red plastic buttons. The drawstring at the front covers a hidden tonal zip. There are slits at the cuffs and this jacket is unlined save for the yoke around the top portion.
A rare Alaia archival piece in truly excellent vintage condition with no flaws of any note. It looks barely worn and does not have a size or composition label so please check our measurements below. The fabric has no stretch; we estimate this will work best on a size UK 8-10 or US 4-6.
MEASUREMENTS
BUST - 34 in. (86 cm)
WAIST - 30 in. (76 cm)
HIP - 38 in. (97 cm)
LENGTH - 33 in. (84 cm)
SHOULDERS - 18 in. (46 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Will you set anything aside for me before I come?
We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website - please let us know a week in advance.
We also have an extensive offline collection. If you let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget, we can browse through our archive in advance of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear when trying on garments from certain eras, especially the 1950s. Vintage clothing was often worn with undergarments that shaped the waist and as such is tailored for them.
We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look; many of which are also for sale.
You may also wish to bring your favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying on, or a pair in gold or silver.
Do you have a price range?
Many of our lower-priced pieces (under £150) are not available to buy online. Our prices range from £80 - £600 for separates. Dresses start at around £150 and go up to £2,500 for the very best antique pieces and designer vintage. Our bridalwear ranges from £300 - £3,000.
Can I bring anyone with me?
Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I get alterations?
We offer some alterations in house. Should you need alterations we cannot provide, we can refer you to one of our tried and trusted tailors.
Do you have an after-care service?
We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage pieces and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
Can I cancel my appointment?
You are free to cancel but please do give us as much notice as possible. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, you will be invoiced a late cancellation fee of £25.
Where's the showroom?
Our address is Circa Vintage, 87A Lansdowne Way London SW8 2PB
Upon arrival, buzz the 87A button on the gate or call us 020 7736 5038 to let you in.
Do you have parking?
We offer free, secure, off-street parking but it is a tight squeeze – so do let us know in advance if you will be needing this and we can make sure that there is space available.
How do I get there by public transport?
Underground:
Stockwell (7 min walk) - Northern and Victoria Lines
Nine Elms (9 min walk) – Northern Line
Overground:
Wandsworth Road (13 min walk) – Westbound to Clapham Junction / Eastbound to Dalston Junction
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal