Revealing Schiaparelli’s Iconic 1937 Embroidered Evening Coat | Fashion Unpicked

Discover the extraordinary details of this iconic 1937 embroidered couture coat, designed by Elsa Schiaparelli in collaboration with the Surrealist artist Jean Cocteau. Subscribe for more fashion videos ‪@vamuseum Watch as curator Sonnet Stanfill reveals the remarkable craftsmanship behind one of Schiaparelli’s most striking creations, showcasing its bold, flat-strip embroidery technique, created by the iconic Parisian atelier Maison Lesage. Originally worn by Doris Castlerosse – socialite and rumoured one-time lover of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, the coat features an eye-catching 'trompe-l'oeil' (trick-of-the-eye) device, created for Schiaparelli by Jean Cocteau. Go behind the scenes to see how the coat has been expertly conserved by the V&A's Conservation team, ready for display in the 'Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art' exhibition. 00:00 Introducing Schiaparelli’s iconic evening coat 00:34 Who was Elsa Schiaparelli? 00:51 Jean Cocteau’s original design sketch 01:38 Two faces or a vase? Trope l’oeil imagery 02:13 Embroidered roses: applique & silk floss 03:30 Schiaparelli’s flat strip embroidery technique 05:03 Whimsical details: button shaped like a dancer’s leg 05:54 Haute couture – who wore this coat? 06:28 Schiaparelli’s London label 08:09 Fearless dressing & celebrity clients 08:44 Condition and conservation treatment 09:54 Why this is one of Schiaparelli’s most iconic designs 👉 See the Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art exhibition at V&A South Kensin