MEASURING TAPE
Elsa Schiaparelli’s simple measuring tape makes a poignant impact over the years.
Elsa Schiaparelli’s iconic measuring tape has long been a signature emblem of the Maison. Her omnipresent tool, significant in Schiaparelli’s work with Haute Couture, first appeared in her creations in 1937 on the bottle of her “Shocking” perfume.
Under the helm of Daniel Roseberry, the significance of the measuring tape persists in the spirit of Schiaparelli, often with a trompe l’oeil twist. The tool is seen as the gilded embossed frame for leather goods, lining the edges of classic coin purses to impeccably crafted handbags.
In other instances, the measuring tape takes form in embellishing and elevating the finite features of clothing, tracing the lapel of a jacket to show off the piece’s cut, or encircle the collar of the blouse, trailing down its attached ties.
In classic Schiaparelli form, the ordinary measuring tape is exalted into a clever code while defining the exquisite detail that has been synonymous with Schiaparelli for generations.
THE MEASURING TAPE SELECTION
BODY PART JEWELRY
The artistic relationship of Elsa Schiaparelli and Salvador Dalí comes to life through figural bijoux.
As an homage to artist Salvador Dalí’s deeply collaborative relationship with Elsa Schiaparelli, there is the gilded “Lips” bracelet, a plump mouth that dresses the naked wrist. The piece is an ode to Dalí’s fascination with lips, a feature that he famously used to create a sofa in 1935. Dalí referenced lips throughout his art, inspiring Schiaparelli’s own designs, as well.
Other body parts have also been cleverly translated into figural bijoux : - Warm gilded nipples are now intended to be worn as earrings and brooches. - Finger and toe caps, dreamy with their lifelike features, are made to elegantly slide over the hands and feet. - And in classic surrealist form, a nose acts as a glamorous escape from its intended meaning and is worn as a head-turning earring.
THE BODY PART JEWELRY SELECTION
THE ASTROLOGY JEWELRY SELECTION