Hot Pink

Shocking pink—hot pink, as it is called today—was the signature colour of Elsa Schiaparelli and perhaps her greatest contribution to the fashion world. Schiaparelli was one of the most innovative designers in the early 20th century, credited with many firsts: trompe l’oeil sweaters with collars and bows knitted in; wedge heels; shoulder bags; and even the concept of a runway show for presenting collections. Hot Pink—printed with a fifth colour, hot pink!—explores Schiaparelli’s childhood in Rome, her introduction to high fashion in Paris, and her swift rise to success collaborating with surrealist and cubist artists like Salvador Dalí and Jean Cocteau. The book includes an author’s note, museum list of where to find Schiaparelli’s fashions, endnotes, a bibliography, and an index.