This illustration by Christian Bérard of a Schiaparelli Haute Couture outfit perfectly captures the characteristics of the so-called "hard chic" silhouette invented by Elsa in the early 1930s. The caption accompanying the illustration describes it as follows: "The new Schiaparelli silhouette – rigid shoulders, defined waist, short skirt, surprising colors. Wool jacket and skirt; silk blouse. And a hat with a plunging feather." This silhouette is the origin of the "power suit" of the 1980s.

Elsa Schiaparelli held her friend Christian Bérard, known as "Bébé," in high esteem. In her autobiography, *Shocking Life*, she wrote of him, "To be approved of, admired, sometimes even loved by Bébé, was a consecration in the artistic, intellectual, and social circles of Paris." A multi-talented artist, Christian Bérard collaborated with Elsa Schiaparelli on numerous occasions. He created fashion illustrations, exclusive printed designs, and even a painted screen for the living room of her townhouse.