Hussein Chalayan

Private Collection, U.K.
Acquired directly from the above by the present owner in 2000

Condition: This work is in very good condition. Colour: The catalogue illustration is accurate, the white is more stark in the original work.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

"I was interested in investigating the idea of creating a cyclical scenario, where people react to clothes and the end result. I like the idea of it being interactive".

Leading the forefront of contemporary fashion design, Chalayan is renowned for his innovative use of materials, meticulous pattern cutting and progressive attitude. His Airmail Dress is a technological masterpiece where the garment originally arrives as a letter and folds out to become a full-length dress. Chalayan worked on this design when he was a student and used it in his graduation collection leading him to produce an entire selection of paper clothing.

After being exhibited widely from Istanbul to Tokyo, then at the Barbican Gallery, London and finally at the Musée des Arts Decoratifs in Paris, Chalayan put the design into limited production with only 200 dresses created.

As with many of his fashion designs, Chalayan pioneered these dresses not out of paper but an unrippable material, Tyvek. By experimenting and substituting various fabrics, he developed his ground-breaking dress to encourage a dialogue between art and fashion.