Azzedine Alaïa, Thierry Mugler: 1980-1990

This book, published to accompany the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation's current exhibition (running through June 29, 2025), explores their extraordinary friendship, creative collaborations, and lasting impact on the history of fashion.

Azzedine Alaïa moved to Paris from Tunis in 1956 and quickly became the favorite couturier of the French high society like Louise de Vilmorin and many celebrities, including Greta Garbo and Claudette Colbert. In 1979, he crossed paths with Thierry Mugler, igniting a deep friendship and creative partnership that would go on to shape the fashion landscape of the 1980s. That same year, Mugler invited Alaïa to design a series of tuxedos for his autumnwinter collection, publicly acknowledging his contribution in the press kit. Mugler’s support proved crucial — he introduced Alaïa to key fashion figures and played a pivotal role in persuading him to present his first runway show in New York in 1982, even assisting with the event's organization. Together, their shared vision celebrated a powerful femininity, structured silhouettes, and Hollywood-inspired glamour, which marked a sharp contrast to the folkloric trends that had dominated the previous decade.