Schiaparelli. Schiap. Whatever you want to call her, i really do love her. Undoubtedly one of the most inspiring designers of the 20th century (and someone who i have mentioned a number of times before). Her style was all about fashion with a sense of humour and irreverence. She worked succsessfully with some of the greatest artists of her time including Dali and Cocteau and challenge many of the preconcieved ideas of beauty. Not a particularly attractive woman she was the antithesis of Chanel with her relaxed elegance. Although, whereas Chanel was a truly wonderful businesswoman Schiaparelli was an amazing designer. She though, interestingly, didn’t consider herself a designer. Schiap introdced us to shocking pink, exposed zips and some of the craziest, maddest applique patterns ever seen.The book on her story, “shocking life” is quite wonderful and gives a real insight into her life. Some excellent examples of her work can be seen on both the Victoria and Albert museum website and the Met Museum website. Here are a selection of a few of my favourite garments by her, all from the Met archive.