SCHIAPARELLI

Christian Lacroix Relaunches A Classic

By Ford Leland

Paris, France – A synesthetic treat of mixed artistic elements, the Winter 2013 Schiaparelli Couture collection invites its audience to imagine a mythic world that could have been. Created as homage to the late designer by fashion legend Christian LaCroix, this exhibition is the first in a series of future guest collaborations that will explore what “Schiap” might have designed in modern times. Presented on a mirrored carousel in Paris’ iconic Pavillion de Flore in the Musee des Arts Decoratifs, LaCroix has remixed many of her trademark details with a modern edge.

Schiaparelli Fall Winter 2013

Presently a costumier by trade, his willingness to explore surrealism shows in a number of pieces that flirtatiously embrace the style of Schiap’s creativity. Oversized volumes and multi-cultural references pervade the 18 looks each carrying a unique story of their own.  A lobster here, playing with feathers and fur there, the whole affair is a delectable sight to behold that has the same vintage-now feel of LaCroix’s past work. The strength of this collaboration is most evident in a heavily embroidered coatdress in the staple Schaip hot-pink. Not only does it capture LaCroix’s whimsy, it incorporates Schiaparelli’s taste in a modern day cut. This one will definitely go down in the fashion records.