Faux Fur-tastic or Disaster: Schiaparelli 2023

Photo from Vogue Runway

Schiaparelli, best known for their strange and groundbreaking artistry, has once again shocked viewers worldwide. The Schiaparelli Spring 2023 Couture Show pulled out all the stops when debuting their latest line which displayed faux-taxidermy. 

Photo from New York Times

The hyper-realistic taxidermy pieces were sculpted with resin and hand-painted by Schiaparelli’s finest and attached to beautiful couture pieces that were modeled by iconic runway stars such as Naomi Campbell, Shalom Harlow and Irina Shayk. A-Lister, Kylie Jenner, was also seen front row donning the same lion couture piece that was modeled by Shayk. 

Although many have applauded the artistry and creativity behind the taxidermy fashion, many including the animal rights group, PETA, have called out Schiaparelli for promoting hunting and violence against animals. 

Daniel Roseberry, the mind behind the latest line has revealed the artistry behind the controversial pieces and has referenced the “Inferno of Dante’s Divine Comedy” as the idea behind his latest creation. When explaining the inner workings of his artistry and process Roseberry explained in reference to Dantes work, “[i]n the first cycle of Dante’s journey, he faces terrors. He confronts a lion, a leopard, and a she-wolf. They each represent different things. But the lion and the animals are there as a photorealistic approaching of surrealism and trompe l’oeil in a different way.” 

Photo from William Blake

The couture outfits which include the taxidermy pieces attached to the bodice of the outfits consisted of an ankle-length snow leopard dress worn by Harlow. While Shayk sported a floor-length black gown with a lion head and Campbell wore an oversized fur coat with a wolf attached. 

The eerily realistic pieces have caused public discourse many saying the fashion house unnecessarily used the faux-taxidermy in order to shock viewers. PETA has called out the brand for glamorizing trophy hunting and the harm to endangered and highly sought-after animals. PETA has had a long history of calling out fashion companies for their unethical and immoral use of animal fur and cruelty. Although many have praised the artistry behind the couture line, the use of the pieces is rightfully questionable. 

Photo from Vogue Thailand

Schiaparelli also pulled out all the stops when they designed Doja Cat’s now famous red head-to-toe 30k Swarovski crystal look. The red body paint and 30,000 crystals that were applied to Doja Cat’s body took over five hours to apply. The look was completed with a red satin corset, along with a beaded skirt and knee-high boots. Many have said that Doja Cat’s look won fashion week. 

Let VALLEY know what you think of Schiaparelli’s latest collection by tweeting us @VALLEYmag!

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