RALPH & RUSSO Spring/Summer 2015

RALPH & RUSSO HAUTE COUTURE Spring/Summer 2015

February 1, 2015

By Marcellous L. Jones

Photos courtesy of Ralph & Russo

Paris, France – When looking at the new collection by British duo Ralph & Russo one can easily see how the house has emerged as the champion of modern day haute couture from the British Isles. The collection is modern, elegant and very Hollywood.

Volume, proportions and movement are the keys to understanding the collection. It oscillates effortlessfully between closely cut looks and voluminous reverie. The show opens with a beautiful dress with a caped dress. Both have appliqués embroidered onto them in soft pastel pink. Each of the two elements has been cut to knee length.

Upon the introduction of the first suit, we see a two-piece ensemble that balances shape and fluidity. The skirt moves with its beautifully patterned embroideries. The jacket is structured. Laces appear next. The first is a computer generated “new lace” and is used in an off-the-shoulder party dress. The second is a slim fitting gown that instantly becomes a eye-catcher with its maxi-cape. The next is a two-piece, belted suit in white lace with sleeves cut to just below the elbows. This is one of the strongest sections in the collection.

The collection then evolves so that draping makes it presence known. And after this, we then head into the softest element of the collection in which we see flouncing added to the shoulders and bottoms of the dresses. This is the favorite section of this writer. It is without the artifice of embroideries or appliqués. It’s simply where a lovely frame is embellished with a beautiful gown.