This iconic black and white gingham Alaia "Tati" cropped bra top and short set was instantly made an icon when photoed on supermodel Yasmeen Ghauri. Inspired by the "10-for-1 chic" of the Parisian discount store, Tati, and its gingham striped awning the fall 1991 collection has become one of Alaia's most iconic and coveted for that instantly recognizable print. The entire collection has been well documented, both them and over the years since and was featured in all of the major fashion magazines as the collection of the season. Versions of this piece were featured prominently both in the Alaia exhibit at the Groninger Museum and accompanying book 'Alaia- Azzedine Alaia in the 21st Century,'.
Both pieces are made from Alaia's signature "bandage" knit fabric that is is meant to fit and hug you like a glove. The top has molded and seam cups and a cross over back. The shorts are meant to fit high and tight and I love the little top set pockets on each cheek. It is very sexy and you can of course break up the set and wear each piece with something else for a variety of styling possibilities. Very rare and collectible.
Both pieces slip on to wear and are unlined. The shorts have front curved pockets on each hi and top set pockets at the back. All are functional. They are made from his signature 'bandage" fabric so have stretch. There is perhaps the very slightest of greying to the white of the banding on each piece but from what I have seen from these this fabric did this as soon as it was cleaned and worn. Please super-size the photos to view. The top is tagged a vintage Alaia xs and the shorts a small
Bra Top
Bust: 15-18" flat across from side seam to side seam
Under-bust: 13-15" flat across from side seam to side seam
Length: approx 13" from neck to bottom
Shorts
Waist: 14-16" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Hips: 18-20" flat across the back from side seam to side seam
Pant length: approx 13" from waist to bottom
Modern Sizing Equivalent: XS-SML
Item# DD1424
Reference pohotos: Various Vogue from that season / Image from the book 'Alaia- Azzedine Alaia in the 21st Century,' the accompanying exhibit book for the Alaia exhibit at the Groninger Museum.
This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.