Hot Pink: The Life & Fashions of Elsa Schiaparelli

2015 | Abrams Books for Young Readers

Shocking pink - hot pink, as it is called today - was the signature color of Elsa Schiaparelli (1890 - 1973) and perhaps her greatest contribution to the fashion world. Schiaparelli was one of the most innovative designers in the early 20th century. Many design elements that are taken for granted today she created and brought to the forefront of fashion. She is credited with many firsts: trompe l'oeil sweaters with collars and bows knitted in; wedge heels; shoulder bags; and even the concept of a runway show for presenting collections. Hot Pink - printed with a fifth color, hot pink! - explores Schiaparelli's childhood in Rome, her introduction to high fashion in Paris, and her swift rise to success collaborating with surrealist and cubist artists like Salvador Dalí and Jean Cocteau.

Praise for Hot Pink

Hot Pink was a nominee for the 2016 YALSA nonfiction award. The California Reading Association named Hot Pink for a 2015 Eureka! Honor Award.