Shocking: The Surreal World of Elsa Schiaparelli

Marie-Sophie Carron de la Carriere

Shocking: The Surreal World of Elsa Schiaparelli
Format
Hardback
Publisher
Thames & Hudson Ltd
Country
United Kingdom
Published
25 August 2022
Pages
288
ISBN
9780500025949

Shocking: The Surreal World of Elsa Schiaparelli

Marie-Sophie Carron de la Carriere

Published to accompany the major exhibition at the Musee des Arts Decoratifs, Paris, this book is destined to become a must-have work of reference for all fashion lovers.

The couturiere Elsa Schiaparelli (1890-1973) was a key figure in Paris fashion between the two World Wars. Following in the footsteps of her mentor Paul Poiret, she designed her first knitwear collection in January 1927. Decorated with trompe-l'oeil motifs in black and white, her sweaters were an immediate success in both France and the USA. In 1935, the Maison Schiaparelli opened in the Place Vendome in Paris, selling collections designed for sports, city and evening wear.

Like her arch-rival Gabrielle Chanel, Schiaparelli also worked closely with artists, including Man Ray, Jean Cocteau and Salvador Dali, with whom she created a lobster dress. Taking a cue from Surrealism, her creations were hugely imaginative and made use of innovative new materials. The ‘Schiap’ style continued to develop through the 1930s. Her most famous collections had themes including the circus (summer 1938) and astrology (winter 1938-39). In 1937, Schiaparelli launched the fragrance Shocking, named after shocking pink, which had become her signature colour.

Alongside vintage photographs, sketches and contemporary features from Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue, this volume presents specially photographed masterpieces from the collection of the Musee des Arts Decoratifs in Paris. All 120 garments and accessories from the Schiaparelli archive are illustrated, along with a selection of her drawings dating from 1933 to 1953.

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in 5-9 days

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.