Friday, April 3, 2009

Schiaparelli



Those people who know me, know that I have an affinity, slightly leaning towards obsession, for Elsa Schiaparelli. Elsa was an italian fashion designer who opened a fashion house is Paris and spent time in New York and California, among other various places. She was inspired by surrealist artists, who were also her friends.
If you are not familiar with her work, look it up. You will not be disappointed that you did. trust me.
At the age of fourteen, Schiaparelli was already a published writer. So it is not surprising that she also wrote an autobiography about her truly intriguing life, as an adult.

So my birthday is coming up soon, which means that my grandmother and mom have been on the hunt for treasures for me. Lucky me because they have very good taste.
Well this present left me speechless...

Inside the always beautifully wrapped package, I first found a petite bottle of "Shocking" a perfume by Schiaparelli. I was like, awww, how sweet!


Next came a first edition (pictured above) of the autobiography of Schiaparelli I mentioned before, Shocking Life. I was so excited.
Further examining the book, I found the inscription, "Property of Reginald MacFarland xmas 1954". Oh, how personal!


Then I revealed the last gift in the box. It was a letter that was found in the book addressed to Mr. MacFarland----from Elsa herself.


BEST present ever.


Well, you might not be as excited as I am, but holding something from Elsa herself just about left me speechless. The letter says this: (there are some parts I have trouble reading, but here is my best try)


April 23, 1960


Dear Mr. MacFarland,


Thank you so much for your nice letter. I am glad you liked the fragrance (?). It was great fun to talk to American (?).


Sincerely yours,


Elsa Schiaparelli


Oh, and as fate may have it, the letter was sent from France on my birthday, April 25. Don't you just love coincidences?
I have such a respect and love for Schiaparelli, that this gift was truly special for me.