Azzedine Alaia
Born on June 7, 1939 in Tunis, Alaïa is known to be one of the worlds most respected fashion designers. Alaïa possessed a passion for the arts at a young age, therefore studying sculpture in the local École des Beaux-Aits. When he moved to Paris in 1957, he started working for the biggest names in the fashion industry such as Christian Dior, Guy Laroche, and Thierry Mugler.In the late 1970’s, Alaïa opened his first atelier in his small apartment – from where he creates gowns for the fashion glitterati, such as Marie-Hélène de Rothschild and Greta Garbo. In 1980, he showed his first ready-to-wear collection. In 1984, he was voted best designer of the year and best collection of the year by The French Ministry of Culture. Known for his signature body-con silhouettes, his talent for producing discreet luxury has seen his empire become one of the most prestigious and respected of his generation. Held in the hightest esteem for startlingly honest approach, he has been resolute in not bowing to the pressures or demanding timetables of the fashion industry’s annual diary – instead crafting and showing his creations in his own time.