Elsa Schiaparelli: talent as the first undefeatable anti-theft device

A golden face mask with diamond piercings and a metalized resin bust moulded to the

body were part of the Surrealist surprises in Daniel Roseberry’s new SS21 collection for Schiaparelli in Paris

Elsa Schiaparelli is known for her groundbreaking work in fashion design. Her innovative designs and bold style revolutionized the industry and paved the way for future designers. 

From childhood, Elsa has been quite unusual, both in terms of her looks as well as occupations, and her designs reflect that uniqueness all the way. 

Her dresses are known for being innovative, luxurious, artistic, and often provocative. She became one of the most influential designers we know, creating many avant-garde pieces that were far ahead of their time.

As time went on, her career picked up, her influence grew and Elsa began to create her own legacy, becoming a legendary designer, making a name for herself in the fashion industry with her avant-garde designs and artistry. She is best known for being one of the first designers to create couture, haute couture and prêt-à-porter dresses. Her designs were remarkable because they defied conventions. 

Daniel Roseberry's painting ofthe final design 

It's probably also interesting that Elsa not only created something memorable, but in some ways created the ultimate watermark. How does that work? Well, because she was so influential, all Elsa had to do was create a dress or even a design (for example, the famous newspaper prints) in her unique style and anyone who copied her was immediately recognized as a thief. Pretty genius.

The trick is quite simple: if you invent a beautiful signature move, copycats will instantly be in the limelight (for all the wrong reasons). Inspirational, isn’t it? For example, we know for sure no-one can copy our style (believe us, we’ve seen the results and…nope). 

Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Kim Kardashian West, Emma Corrin (inset: Daniel Roseberry)

COURTESY OF SCHIAPARELLI (4); WILLIAM WATERWORTH

These days, if you know your Schiaparelli, you can easily find out which new and upcoming designers aren’t worth your time if their work looks suspiciously familiar. 

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could put an anti-theft device like that on everything else you have? We at Artessere certainly think you can. 

Don’t forget to visit the The Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris before January 2023 where you can find quite a few Schiaparelli designs a mile away (they also serve as flood warnings).