Introducing Elsa Schiaparelli

Fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli (1890 – 1973) was one of the most remarkable couturiers of the 20th century, known for her subversive, sometimes overtly surreal designs. In this film, Sonnet Stanfill, Senior Curator of Fashion & Textiles, takes a closer look at some of Schiaparelli's most iconic garments, including the 'Shoe' hat and 'Tears' dress, designed in collaboration with Salvador Dali.

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Background image: Evening ensemble, Elsa Schiaparelli, 1937 – 38, France. Museum no. T.398&A-1974. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London