More than 100 designs from Alaïa’s hidden Dior archive are revealed for the first time
This fall, La Galerie Dior is partnering with the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation for the first time to stage a pair of exhibitions highlighting Alaïa’s extensive collection of vintage Dior. The dual showcases will open across both institutions, offering a rare glimpse into Alaïa’s private archive of more than 600 pieces.
At La Galerie Dior, more than 100 designs from Alaïa’s holdings will go on view from Nov. 20 to May 3, 2026, the majority created by founder Christian Dior with select works by Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferré, and John Galliano. Meanwhile, from Dec. 1 to May 3, the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation will present 30 Dior designs alongside a matching number of Alaïa’s own creations, illustrating how the Tunisian-born couturier drew inspiration from the designers he most admired.
Both exhibitions are curated by Olivier Saillard, director of the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation, in collaboration with Gaël Mamine. “Christian Dior’s models testify to the relentless quest that Azzedine Alaïa had unwaveringly set his heart upon,” said Saillard, noting Alaïa’s early fascination with the architecture of Dior’s garments.
The dual shows follow Alaïa’s 2023 retrospective at the Palais Galliera, which first brought his hidden Dior archive into public view. Dior has previously worked with Saillard on a series of Assouline-published books chronicling its creative directors.
Supporting the exhibitions, Rizzoli will publish Azzedine Alaïa’s Dior Collection on Nov. 19, while Damiani will release Azzedine Alaïa and Christian Dior, Two Masters of Couture in December.
