The runway could have easily been seats at the world’s best symphony orchestra show with Chado Ralph Rucci superbly playing the roles of composer and conductor as he executed with precision and much grace hair, makeup, acccessories, models and designs. His ultimate execution reminding you of the powerful strength of an orchestra when strings, brass, woodwinds and percussions combine to make a very sweet melodius music.
Backstage, Chado while seeming light with his stride had a tad bit of an anxious energy. It was clear he was a man who reveled in perfection. He spoke with a few press, French press included, spoke with his key publicist, Kelly Cutrone of People’s Revolution, made sure veterans Tom Pecheux lead artist from M.A.C and lead stylist Laurent Philippon for Bumble and Bumble, also French, were taken care of and ultimately settled down to more a few more interviews and keeping an eye on his garments.
Chado’s energy and anticipation to display hopefully well received work that was modern, youthful and elegant was felt front of the house. To the right of runway when you appeared from backstage was a strong lineup of some of the big names in the fashion and entertainment industries: Vogue’s Andre Leon Tally, Martha Stewart, Iris Apfel, Designer Rachel Roy, Actor and Comedian Steve Harvey, Keisha Whittaker, Socialite Deeda Blair and the list goes on.
The appointed time finally arrived and Chado Ralph Rucci was ready to take on the role of Conductor for his beautiful “fashion orchestra.” Inspired by what he explained was, “the lighteness and transparency, and various references to Pina Bausch, Lynn Chadwick and the 11th century’s ‘The Tale of Genji,” he played beautiful music to the eyes with structured and highly feminine power suits. For example, a black power suit with silk chiffon blouse, his opening act, was perfect for the successful or on the road to success Ladybrille woman.
Not one to serve up “boring” designs, Chado teased his audience with colorful yellows, lime green and red in chic dresses perfect for cocktails or romantic dinners. Conducting his amazing symphony orchestra, he took his designs to a whole new level with design details of geometric patterns on dresses and jacketsand sheer panels complementing denser fabrics.
Ultimately when the Composer and Conductor, Chado Ralph Rucci, signaled the final end of the “fashion music” he received a standing ovation.
For me, it left me feeling so good and saying, “aaaaaah this is what real fashion is all about.”
Stay tuned for our interview with Chado Ralph Rucci.
~Article by Uduak Oduok
~Jason Kempin/Getty Images
Founded in 2007, Ladybrille® Magazine is a California based pioneer digital publication demystifying the image of Africans in the west through contemporary African fashion and celebrating the brilliant woman in business and leadership, with an emphasis on the African woman in the diaspora. Our coverage includes stories on capital, access to markets, expertise, hiring and retention, sales, marketing, and promotions.
