Yes, Ralph is very optimistic! I've only been there a few months but I can tell that there is a new excitement in the air. The first day that the new fabrics were brought in for this collection, the Atelier was buzzing - curious glances were firing off. And a faint whisper was sparsely heard, "but -- Ralph never uses color". A team of the most immensely talented individuals you have ever met make up the Ralph Rucci team. Wondrous things go on in that studio, I swear. Seemingly by magic the looks were completed in what seemed like a week's time. My parents came to visit two weeks before the rush, and I was ashamed to find that the collection was in full swing in my absence. HALF of the pieces already completed. From monochromatic collections (which I adore) to bright vibrant hues, is a major change indeed. To be honest, I was a little uneasy about the color in the beginning but oh, I am a fan of it now. That being said, my favorite look was a still a white piping sleeved jacket that spoke so much to my personal aesthetic that it was a bit scary.
The construction is so beautiful. It's always my delight to look inside the garments; my heart jumps at every brilliantly unique finish - which happens more often then I could have ever imagine. No detail ever rushed or left unturned because of time, every feather, glass bead and sequence meticulously hand sewn. The awe inspiring, seriously beautiful patterns that only enhance the work of the designer are what I most love about the Atelier. I could watch the master patten makers all day, if only they would allow it.
Also there is the presence of Jeffery, the company CEO (which until the show I didn't know was new to the company) who could be adding to Ralph's optimism. Certainly one of the nicest business people I've ever met. Always saying hello and goodby with the biggest of smiles and never forgetting to inquire about how you are doing. All in all for the stated reasons this has been my favorite collection thus far.
