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.
My other Horrockses baby that i had totally forgotten about!
When i say babies in reference to my Horrockses dresses i say it in respect that they are my “children” i really do love them, i sort of wish i didn’t hold sold a connection to my vintage clothes, as it means even if they don’t fit me i couldn’t bring myself to sell them. This piece is a real beauty though. Of my Horrockses numbers it is the only true “ballgown” style dress. It is in excellent condition with the cotton having a slight sheen to it. I think (due to the label) that this is a slightly later piece than my other Horrockses numbers, but i really do love it. The bold floral print is perfectly set off by the muted pale pink background and helps it to be both elegant and understated.
It has nearly killed me but it’s finished
Oh my goodness, i thought i would actually never finish my latest design project, in between the knit samples, research pages, designs and continuous photoshop editing of my illustrations i genuinely couldn’t see the end in sight. (including three days last week where i worked for 15 hours and a mad dash to make it to the binding shop which gave me an asthma attack…oops) But it is done!!! These are just a few examples of my flats and illustrations. I was especially proud of my flats, as i think they really convey the overall 1940’s military inspiration i was going for with the collection. Excellent!
Advantage In Vintage 