Schiaparelli

1890-1973

SELECTION

A leading figure in Dadaism and Surrealism, Italian fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli brought fashion and art together in her work through numerous artistic collaborations, she worked with Dali, Man Ray, Cocteau, Bérard and Leonor Fini. She invented thematic collections, but also shocking pink and visible zips.

haute couture, autumn-winter 1938-1939

haute couture, autumn-winter 1934-1935

haute couture, spring-summer 1939

  • haute couture, autumn-winter 1938-1939

    Jacket, Elsa Schiaparelli

    “Zodiaque” Jacket, "Astrologie" collection. Navy blue silk velvet, embroidered by Lesage with twelve gold-coloured glyphs on the middle front opening, collar trimmed with rhinestones and inset metal bands. Star dust beaded with glass tubes, constellations embroidered with rhinestones and gold thread, shooting stars in glass and embroidered comet tails.

    Autumn-winter 1938-1939

    FAA.SCH.0001

    Azzedine Alaïa Foundation

    Ph. Patricia Schwoerer

  • haute couture, autumn-winter 1934-1935

    Evening dress, Elsa Schiaparelli

    Black silk crepe and tulle embroidered with a cascade of rhodoid sequins. V-neckline, sheath dress with apron-effect front and open back.

    Autumn-winter 1934-1935

    FAA.SCH.0054

    Azzedine Alaïa Foundation

    Ph. Patricia Schwoerer

  • haute couture, spring-summer 1939

    Evening dress, Elsa Schiaparelli

    Ivory silk satin printed with a design by Marcel Vertès. Scoop neckline with four flat pleats, thin straps covered with origami-style pleated straps, edging the deep back neckline. Fitted at the waist and straight skirt, bustle and volume at the back down to the hemline.

    Spring-summer 1939

    FAA.SCH.0018

    Azzedine Alaïa Foundation

    Ph. Patricia Schwoerer