Azzedine Alaïa (B.1940). A Rare Hooded Dress

circa 1986, of sage-green knitted wool, with zip following the contours of the body in a spiral from neck to hem, with designer's label - Price Realized £9,375 ($15,000) 

Notes: The construction of this dress reveals Azzedine Alaia's admiration of the iconic designer, Charles James. James created a ground breaking dress in the 1950s which used a zip which again wound around the body. James is perhaps the 'couturier's couturier' par excellence for his pioneering cut and construction.

This model is known for having been worn by Grace Jones, who was dressed by Alaia for her role in the Bond film, Live and Let Die.

Christie's. Resurrection: Avant-garde Fashion. 30 October 2008. London, South Kensington. Image 2008 Christie's Ltd. www.christie's.com