Introduction to Schiaparelli’s New Retrospective
We are excited to announce that a new retrospective, ‘Schiaparelli: Fashion becomes art’, is set to open in V&A South Kensington in March 2026. This will be the first exhibition ever staged in Great Britain, dedicated to the surrealistic house. Delphine Bellini, CEO of Schiaparelli, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming event, stating that the team has been working on this news for months.
The Relationship Between Schiaparelli and London
One of the main intentions of this exhibition is to highlight the relationship between the House of Schiaparelli and London. Elsa Schiaparelli was heavily involved in the city, and the brand has recently moved to a new room in Harrods, which speaks to Daniel Roseberry’s vision. This move marks a significant moment for the brand to take over the city of London.
The History of Schiaparelli
The brand, founded in 1927 by Elsa Schiaparelli, became synonymous with innovation and is famous for its metaphysical and artistic themes. Schiaparelli was one of the first designers to present the concept of the wrap dress and zippers. She was also known for her participation in the surrealistic and Dada movements and her collaborations with artists such as Salvador Dalí, Man Ray, Jean-Michel Frank, and Giacometti.
The Exhibition
The exhibition will feature 200 objects that span the history of the house, including the famous skeleton and tear dresses, as well as a hat that looks like a wrong shoe, designed in collaboration with Dalí. Artworks by Pablo Picasso, Jean Cocteau, and Man Ray will also be on display. The reaction from collectors and other museums has been unprecedented, with the V&A securing some of the best loans in terms of visual arts that they have ever had in a fashion exhibition.
The Significance of the Retrospective
The retrospective comes at a relevant time, as Daniel Roseberry’s winter 2025/2026 Couture collection explored the themes of life and art standing on the abyss. The collection drew parallels between Paris before World War II and the current state of the world. The exhibition is a testament to the level of respect that the House of Schiaparelli has within the art community and Elsa Schiaparelli’s enduring legacy.
