Wednesday 18 July 2012

Schiaparelli and Grandma: Impossible Collaborations



Only a month left to visit the amazing exhibition on at The Metropolitan museum of Modern Art Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations. I would absolutely love to go but I doubt I can schedule or budget for it at the moment.  

One of Elsa Schiaparelli's popular pieces was the trompe l'oeil sweater inspired by a two yarn technique she saw possibility in after seeing a girl wearing a top made this way. She tracked down the skilled knitters that used this "Armenian knitting" technique, (the original purpose was to give the garment elasticity, structure and strength) and used the two colours the create designs integrated into the clothing. Probably the most well known was the "Bow" style but she also designed crossword puzzles and OUTRAGEOUS X-Ray styles revealing your woollen ribs. (Yes, I WANT ONE TOO!)
Schiaparelli Sweater
I really enjoyed reading up on Schiaparelli during my degree and she has always fascinated me. Her daring, artistic approach to fashion is continually inspiring. These jumpers were just a teeny part of it but I was reminded of them this weekend when I happened upon a VERY 80'S book of designs for knitting your very own "trick of the eye" creations. Or commissioning a couture one from your Nan...



This guys got TWO cameras. Hey wait a minute-THAT'S HIS JUMPER! He must be a professional

I love everything about this



There is something really attractive about this guy...Oh wait it's just his jumper

There's a jumper for everyone


Urban Outknitters



Unofficial Merch!




I think the difference between Paris in the 30s and 80's Britain is summed up thus: 
Tongue detail

Black tie? No probs- lil' black Cocktail jumper




"Talent borrows, genius steals." Wilde, Oscar

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