Chado Ralph Rucci Resort/Holiday 2013

For Resort/Holiday 2013, Ralph Rucci infused color and texture into his 30-plus piece collection. Now, texture is no stranger to Rucci; Rucci has always incorporated into lots of textures and layering of different fabrications into all his collections regardless of the season or the trends. Still, for his resort/holiday 2013 Rucci expressed this layering technique in some very interesting and innovative ways. Only Ralph Rucci would consider using multiple layers of linen combined with subtle accents of organza and netting. And Rucci’s combination of soft sequins with peek-a-boo netting renders just the right mix of sass and seduction.

There are many influences in this resort collection, the most obvious being Rucci’s ongoing love affair with all things Asian and architectural construction. However, there are some 60s Mod influences, as well as a hint of a 1920s aesthetic evidenced in Rucci’s matte jersey dresses that flare out just above the knee.

With Rucci’s use of Ultrasuede, Rucci is paying homage to his former mentor Halston. Also, Rucci use of wide-legged pants gave a nod to the 70s; particularly, Rucci’s pongee silk green pajama pant ensemble, which was one of the true standouts in this collection.

The genius of Ralph Rucci is that he can take something as classic as the simple black cocktail dress and add a series of simple details, thereby reinventing this look and making it relevant to a variety women from different age and body demographics. Rucci’s sequined, black cocktail dress with netting peek-a-boo meets the definition of reinventing the wheel.

Always innovative with superb craftsmanship, Rucci’s intellectual approach to design is deeply rooted in fashion as wearable art with a unique understanding of what women want to want to wear. This collection was no exception. Bravo Ralph!!

—William S. Gooch