num_pages: 288
description: Published to accompany the major exhibition at the Muse des Arts Dcoratifs Paris this book on the work of the great twentieth-century designer Elsa Schiaparelli is destined to become a must-have reference for all fashion lovers. The couturiere Elsa Schiaparelli (18901973) 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 announcing the arrival of a major new designer. Decorated with trompe-loeil motifs in black and white her sweaters were an immediate success in both France and the US. In 1935 the Maison Schiaparelli opened on the Place Vendo^me 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 Dal with whom she created her now-iconic 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 and her designs were renowned for their originality and creativity. Her most famous collections addressed themes including the circus (Summer 1938) and astrology (Fall/Winter 193839). In 1937 Schiaparelli launched the fragrance Shocking named after shocking pink which had become her signature color. Alongside vintage photographs sketches and contemporary features from Harpers Bazaar and Vogue  this volume presents specially photographed masterpieces from the collection of the Muse des Arts Dcoratifs in Paris. Destined to be the definitive volume on the great designer this lavishly produced and illustrated book brings to life the work of this influential figure in the history of fashion. 200 illustrations
language: English
title: Shocking: The Surreal World of Elsa Schiaparelli
publisher: Thames & Hudson