Which fashion house did Elsa Schiaparelli establish in Paris in 1927?

Elsa Schiaparelli established the Schiaparelli fashion house in Paris in 1927.

Schiaparelli began with knitwear and became known for designs that connected couture with Surrealism. Her work used unexpected imagery, strong colors, trompe-l’œil effects, and collaborations with artists including Salvador Dalí and Jean Cocteau.

The house’s signature color, “Shocking pink,” was introduced in the 1930s and became closely associated with Schiaparelli. Her famous collaborations included the Lobster Dress, created with Dalí, and striking accessories such as the Shoe Hat.

Schiaparelli’s business closed after World War II, but the name was revived in the 21st century. The house is therefore sometimes confused with similarly historic Parisian brands such as Lanvin or Patou, which were founded by different designers and have separate histories.