Little Book of Schiaparelli: The Story of the Iconic Fashion Designer

The Little Book of Schiaparelli is a captivating chronicle of the life and work of the influential and eccentric couturier Elsa Schiaparelli, showcasing her innovative and experimental approach to fashion, collaborations, and creative themes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 22 July 2021
Publisher: Welbeck Publishing Group

Little Book of Schiaparelli is a captivating exploration of the extraordinary life and career of one of history's most influential and eccentric couturiers, Elsa Schiaparelli. With an unrivaled imaginative and experimental approach to fashion, Schiaparelli seamlessly blended the witty and the surreal, the cutting-edge and the elegant, in her garments, jewelry, and collaborations with renowned artists such as Salvador Dalí, Jean Cocteau, and Alberto Giacometti. This captivating book, meticulously illustrated and meticulously written, follows a biographical chronology that delves into the details of Schiaparelli's life, career, and the central creative themes that defined her work. Through a series of stunning images, including close-up details and illustrations of her personal sketches, readers are granted a privileged glimpse into the brilliance of Schiaparelli's innovative oeuvre, which continues to inspire and influence fashion enthusiasts to this day.

Born in Rome in 1890, Schiaparelli's journey into fashion began at a young age. She was influenced by her mother's love of art and her father's passion for architecture, which sparked her creativity and curiosity. After studying art in Paris, Schiaparelli returned to Italy and launched her fashion house in 1925. Her designs quickly gained recognition for their bold and unconventional style, which juxtaposed bright colors, intricate patterns, and unexpected materials.

One of Schiaparelli's most iconic creations was the "Shoe" necklace, which she designed in 1937. The necklace featured a pair of shoes attached to a chain, and it became a symbol of Schiaparelli's daring and playful approach to fashion. She also collaborated with Salvador Dalí on several projects, including the "Surrealist Dress" in 1937, which featured a surrealist interpretation of a woman's body.

In addition to her fashion work, Schiaparelli was also a talented artist and illustrator. She created numerous paintings, drawings, and sculptures throughout her career, and her work often reflected her love of nature, fantasy, and the supernatural.

Schiaparelli's influence on fashion extended beyond her own time. Her bold and innovative designs inspired generations of designers, and her legacy continues to be celebrated in the House of Schiaparelli, which was founded by her daughter, Giulia, in 1954. The house continues to produce stunning collections that blend Schiaparelli's signature style with modern sensibilities, and it remains a symbol of fashion's enduring power to inspire and transform.

In conclusion, Little Book of Schiaparelli is a remarkable tribute to the extraordinary life and career of Elsa Schiaparelli. Through its captivating illustrations and insightful text, the book offers a deep appreciation for Schiaparelli's innovative spirit, her bold and playful approach to fashion, and her enduring legacy in the world of fashion. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the art of creativity, this book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to explore the extraordinary world of Elsa Schiaparelli.

Weight: 380g
Dimension: 132 x 187 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781787398283
Edition number: Reissue