For somewhat of a fledgling atelier, this being it’s sixth season, couturiers Tamara Ralph and Michael Russo have dominated red carpets the world over and have amassed a who’s who of clients the likes of Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian-West, Jordan Dunn, and most recently Lil’ Kim, who sat front row during the show. And with clientele like this, the pressure is definitely on. Yet, they remarkably deliver season after season. Today’s offerings were no different. Silhouettes didn’t seem to vary dramatically from last season’s collection with column dresses still being submerged under cascading capes and voluminous floor-length coats. But Ralph & Russo’s manipulation of tulle and use of silk organza as the backdrop for delicate glass embroidery is nothing short of masterful.
Red carpet gowns traipsed down the catwalk in floral printed silk chiffon, embellished satin, and taffeta cut-out flowers in shades of midnight, amethyst pink, and ice lavender. The separates were not to be missed. A silk organza bomber jacket appliquéd with mink poms poms and ostrich feather blossoms, a cocoon cape with hand embroidered crystals, and a white cashmere floor-length cape with ruffles and jour échelle cutouts at the arms made for eye-catching standout pieces.
Adding a bit of whimsy, which could or could not have been intentional to offset the often serious atmosphere associated with couture season, the pair accompanied a few looks with dramatic matching hats. A burgundy floppy hat played off the colors in a hand-painted halter silk organza gown. A wide-brimmed topper continued the autumnal motif through the silk satin chiffon gown it was paired with.
The obvious stunner being this season’s white tulle fishtail wedding gown assuredly elicited a few gasps of onlookers in awe as it closed yet another successful show. Supremely beautiful and overwrought with femininity, Ralph & Russo’s options for women who indulge in luxury and glamor are vast. I can picture stylists now placing their requests for next award and film festival season. All-in-all, the collection was just as fascinating as the last. And with the level of creativity, craftsmanship and elegant aesthetic Ralph & Russo possesses, they’re certain to leave us as breathless in collections to come.
Photos: Vogue.co.uk