Well it's about time. Women love Azzedine Alaïa for his sensual, sophisticated, form-hugging designs. Their men love him for the same thing (though you'd be hard-pressed to find one who knows his name). In any case, Alaïa is translating his popular image as a smart, flattering designer into a brand-extending lingerie project — a possibly very lucrative move. These days, a full Alaïa piece is even more out of financial reach than it was two quarters ago. But intimates … well, women have always been known to shell out a bit for such little pleasures when the economy sours and, as they cover only a fraction of the body, they tend to cost a fraction of the price of a dress or gown. Alaïa will be turning to a secondary designer for the line (presumably one with experience in frilly unmentionables), and, so says Elle, will recruit a cadre of veteran bods (think Christy, Naomi, et al.) to display the product. Oh, and, as you may know, Alaïa is one of Michelle Obama's faves. We'll just let you dwell on that.

Alaïa to Launch Lingerie [Elle News/Elle]