You will be able to bid on fashion history when pieces from André Leon Talley‘s personal collection head to auction later this month. Auction company Christie’s has announced virtual and in-person auctions featuring a treasure trove of the late fashion journalist’s most iconic looks (including his overflowing robs and caftans), along with Chanel jewelry, Louis Vuitton trunks, fine and decorative art, books, personal correspondence, and mementos.
Talley, who died one year ago today, held a “rarefied status” with his larger-than-life presence and impact in fashion. He made history as the first Black man to serve as Vogue Creative Director. Talley also found, celebrated, and made space for Blackness in everything he did while connecting fashion to music and music.
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“The collection is both glamourous and intimate, reflecting his decades-long relationships with fellow icons including Karl Lagerfeld, Diane von Furstenberg, Ralph Rucci, Tom Ford, Diana Vreeland, and Anna Wintour,” wrote the auction house on its website.
“Andre Leon Talley was a fervent student of fashion, luxury, and French culture,” said Rachel Koffsky, Christie’s SVP, International Head of Department | Handbags & Accessories, in a recent interview. “Not only do these trunks [pictured above] exemplify this, but they were also constant fixtures throughout his life. His collection developed as he developed within the fashion industry.”
The month-long virtual auction is set to kick off on January 27 and will run through February 16. Christie’s has also kicked off a global tour in Palm Beach, from January 18-28, heading to Paris, January 19-24, and returning to New York ahead of an in-person auction to be held February 15 during New York Fashion Week.
Stephenetta Harmon is a Black beauty editor, curator, and digital media and communications expert who builds platforms to celebrate the power, impact, and business of Black beauty. Prior to founding Sadiaa Black Beauty Guide, she served as editor-in-chief for the MN Spokesman-Recorder and digital media director for Hype Hair. Find her at stephenetta.com.