With the news of legendary designer Azzedine Alaïa passing last weekend, the fashion world was both shocked and saddened. While loved throughout the community, nobody had a stronger bond than supermodel Naomi Campbell and Mr Alaïa. The designer was a true father figure in Naomi’s life.
The supermodel took to instagram for her farewell to the designer:
Dear papa , I was blessed in my life to meet you and for your embrace at 16 ,so many wonderful memories of you through out our journey together . I got to experience what it was like to be around a Genius !!! You taught me and opened my eyes to so many things in life , and how to strive for perfection , as you were PERFECTION and UNIQUE and will always be . No one understood the body of a woman more than you . That made us feel good about ourselves inside out . You did all the fatherly duties my unknown father should have . You ignited happiness to all whom were around you , from dancing in the kitchen to playing practical jokes . You protected me and loved me unconditionally . Im eternally , grateful to you the day you picked up the phone and called my mother to tell her you were taking me in . Papa until we meet again on the other side , I know you will continue to guide me , and always be in my heart . May you Rest In Peace
Newly appointed Editor In Chief of British Vogue, Edward Enninful shared: “Azzedine Alaïa was a true visionary, and a remarkable man. He will be deeply missed by all of those who knew and loved him, as well as by the women around the world who wore his clothes. The generosity of his spirit and genius of his designs will never be forgotten.”
I love you papa Ta Fille Naomi ???. Thank you for all the condolences I have received ??
Campell’s fellow supermodels as well shared their farewells.
Supermodel Christy Turlington took to instagram as well, posting a touching behind the scenes video, and creating the #naomialaia hashtag. Turlignton said: “Such sad news to wake up to today and all I can do is look at photos and videos of happier times with one of the gentlest, feistiest, most loving and adoring talents I have known, inside or outside the fashion industry. I will miss your light in the world so much and am sending love to all who did not get a chance to say goodbye.”
Cindy Crawford shared with her followers: “So sad to wake up to the tragic news that #AzzedineAlaia passed away. Besides being a creative genius, he was one of the sweetest people I have ever met. The way he dressed a woman’s body was such a revelation to me as a young model in Chicago because his designs embraced my curves. One of the very first designer pieces I ever bought myself was one of his famous body suits with a skin tight skirt to match in a gold knit fabric from Ultimo in Chicago. Worn with an Alaia belt cinching in my waist, I felt like a million dollars. What an honor it was to model for him only a few years later in Paris at his atelier. He made all of his models feel beautiful and the fashion world will never forget him. ?”
And finally, do not miss this sublime 90s video by the legendary Ellen Von Unwerth captured backstage at an Azzedine Alaïa fashion show in Paris.
