The Fire is Within Ralph Leroy!

version française

Since the beginning of time, and still today, fire has been an eternal symbol of life. It provides for us, it feeds us. Fire gives us life, grants warmth and can be a deadly killer. What a beautiful multi-faceted element to play with for the Spring/Summer 2012 collection. Fire can conger up love as it can also begin wars. It is an element with a double connotation that marked the evolution of man kind and has radically changed our earth and all life among it.

This year Ralph Leroy’s Element of Fire collection has taken up this challenge. To play with fire that demands patience, competence and persistence. Throughout Ralph Leroy’s Spring/Summer 2012 collection you will learn, if anyone has the confidence and the talent to prove there is a strong fire burning from within- it is Ralph Leroy!

Prepare yourselves for a Ralph Leroy collection that will start a spark within you all! His womenswear collection underlines the alluring sensuality of a woman allowing volume and fluidity through luxuriously colored draped silk. Also, the suppleness of jersey is used in corsets to give women the freedom they have only dreamed of. Ralph Leroy took the time to texturize linen, cotton and silk as to improve the DNA of these fabrics and give the woman freedom in expression of their movements to better showcase their personality.

Ralph Leroy did not forget the men! For his menswear collection this season, Ralph Leroy uses structured cuts that are elegant and adds a touch of seduction. The shirts are immaculately detailed; pants are fabricated in linen or denim demonstrating the research of their sophisticated layout. As the jackets are sport inspired, they are lightweight with a European cut accentuating a man’s modern charm but shows off a masculine silhouette. This season, Ralph Leroy is returning with his iconic suspenders. However, this time around they have been re-invented with shorter straps; he plays with zipper and button options as to give the Ralph Leroy man more comfort while remaining secure.

The Spring/Summer 2012 would not be complete without Ralph Leroy coats. The designer is known for his flamboyant color choices and his avant-garde cuts that are incomparable. This season, let yourself be engulfed by the fire-y colors and desire emblazed from none other than Ralph Leroy!

by Incas Productions inc.

Dear Eva !!!

Within the Ralph Leroy lair, it is never a dull moment. The music is always on loud, conversations grow with intensity, voices try to beat one another in volume and anything that is caffeinated or medium to high in sugar content comes in just as quickly as it is ingested. (Don't underestimate the fashionistas. The rumors about them starving themselves are false. Who can work on an empty stomach? Not me.) As songs shuffle from the Glee soundtrack to Celine Dion, the RL team chain smokes and works long and hard as day turns into night, back into day once more. Digging for inspiration for the Fall/Winter 2011 collection, the music lands on the designer's favorite. He knows every word to the movie and can bellow out the song like it's nobody's business. "Don't Cry For Me Argentina" begins to play and a smile is painted across Ralph's face. He has light the match that will inspire him for this entire collection. Let the magic begin!

Eva Perón (or Evita as her Spanish name) was married to President Juan Perón of Argentina in the early 1950's. Evita was Argentina's First Lady who originally did not come from much. She grew up with little possessions and some may call her a "Middleton". Evita died from cancer at the young age of 33 but has been eternally been remembered as combative and passionate. She spoke primarily about labor rights and championed women's suffrage in Argentina. We may credit her today as giving women in Argentina the right to vote. You go, girl! Evita adored fashion and jewels. She believed it distinguished us. By dressing and accessorizing, it presented a particular image to he world. The "Eva" jacket in Ralph Leroy's Fall/Winter 2011 collection is as elegant and graceful as Evita. The tweed construction is geometric and has a beautiful large collar that is able to be worn flat down the neck and on the shoulders or worn up, adding drama and mystery like a 1950's film on the silver screen. The lining is done in a red silk and sizes 4-16 are available.

When designers are at a loss for inspiration or insight, lack of creativity or maybe just burnt out from the previous season, they look back. We see it as consumers. Every 10 years or so, trends return revamped. Flipping through archives of fashion, music, literature, and even politics is largely useful. After all, we all had our start somewhere. Whether it was meaningful, embarrassing, triumphant, you can be sure wearing the Eva jacket today, you will feel nothing less than powerful and hopeful for the future. Without the past to reminisce about, who are we today?  

Available in various colors.
Sizes 4-18 available.

Jacket Eva:  450.00$

Skirt Sharon: 224.00$ 

by Blame_coco

Collection Element'Air
Photo lookbook: Vincent Chine
Model lookbook: Sophia

   Photo Fashion show: Jimmy Hammelin
   Model fashion show Karine S. @ Montage
   Photos Evita Peron: Google 

It's burning!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Collection Element FIRE

Photo: Vincent Chine

Model: Anne-Marie (new face ss12)

She's on FIRE!!!

Collection Element FIRE

Photo: Vincent Chine

Model: Anne-Marie (new face ss12)

He's on FIRE!

 

 

Collection Element FIRE

Photo: Vincent Chine

Model: Maxime Bélanger (new face ss12)

Seductive "Ralphy"

Version Française

Once again, I am late. I get in, change right away and grab a chic constructed jacket for...to be quite honest, I have no idea the exact event of where I am headed. As I make a run for an available taxi, I notice some friendly strangers shooting me a smile here and there. "People are so nice" I think to myself. Once getting in to my taxi, I reach the location I hope is the correct one and walk up the stairs braving myself for what is to come. The crowd is dressed in somber tones all looking well put-together sipping their flutes of champagne. This looks so familiar. What time of the year is it again? I look to the obvious of signage in the room that reads "Montreal Fashion Week 2011".

My instinct never fails me. Thanks to it, my outfit is appropriate for the event that calls for trendy  attire with edge. I place my hair that continues to fall out of place and catch the eyes of some lovely ladies. One smile here, another smile I catch at the corner of my eye...camera flashes flicker. The red leather of my Ralph Leroy jacket seems to be catching every one's attention!

My Ralph Leroy "Ralphy" jacket is designed to seductively stand out and get more than one look. If he were still around today, James Dean would be wearing the Ralphy to an exclusive party in Hollywood. Brad Pitt and Johnny Depp for a modern take would fit perfectly as well. This jacket is for the confidant, stylish gentleman who may be known to the female population as a heart breaker. You have been warned!

I did receive many looks with the Ralphy by Ralph Leroy jacket at Fashion Week and I am sure The King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson would have been proud and confidant in it as well.

Ralphy is without a doubt a statement jacket. It has a European cut, well-adjusted fit and has zippers down the front of the sleeves and chest for that extra edge Ralph Leroy brings to his pieces.

Available in several colors except black.

"Ralphy"
Sizes 36 to 50

and is sensibly priced at: 1200.00$

By Nicolas_Bg

Collection Element'Air

Photo: Vincent Chine

Model: Jean Philippe D.@ Orange Model

On a date with "Sergio"

You're being led by a kind stranger up a flight of stairs. It's a breezy fall night and the wind has just blown you a whiff of mouthwatering freshly baked croissant. The sound from a corked wine has popped open, a violin begins to play softly, beautifully. You pause and hope you've reached your mysterious destination. The blindfold is removed and there you are standing before your beau with his hair pushed back (just the way you always told him you like it) on top of the Eiffel Tower overlooking the city of love. A vision pulled from your dreams fitted in a milk chocolate, two-button suede blazer by Ralph Leroy. Thank goodness Prince Charming has style.

Sergio isn't the name of your Prince Charming. He is the reason your ex-boy is still calling you because he got a glimpse of your upgrade. Sergio is the exquisitely tailored jacket in Ralph Leroy's Fall 2011 Air Element Collection. This jacket dresses up your pair of jeans so keep it as your go-to when undecided about what will impress her. It's European cut will set you apart from the crowd of black blazers and Lucky7 deep V-neck shirts. We see Jamie Foxx rocking his Carrera sunglasses with the Sergio and a black pant looking oh so smooth! Johnny Depp known to be a little more of a hippie with his style of dress, works this jacket with his disheveled hair, a printed scarf and leaves the jacket open giving us a glimpse at the green pea silk lining.

The Sergio jacket is alluring stylish and is no less of an "It" item this Fall. With suede and silk living in harmony together, it creates luxury in a man's wardrobe. If there is one piece to invest in this fall, it is the Sergio. Turning your frog in to a Prince Charming by the closure of two magical buttons.

 

Sergio

Available in several colors except black.

Sizes 36 to 50

and is sensibly priced at: 875.00$

by Blame_Coco

Collection Element'Air

Photo: Vincent Chine

Model: Jean Philippe D.@ Orange Model

La séduction de "Ralphy"

English Version

Je suis à la dernière minute. J’arrive du boulot, je me change et  prends une veste chic mais décontractée puisqu’on m’a invité et je ne sais toujours pas l’endroit où  nous allons. Je cours, on me sourit. Embarque dans un taxi et me voilà en route. On me dépose devant un immeuble, je monte les marches et brave une foule bondée. Je n’arrive à peine à me faufiler. Ils ont tous un verre à la main et semble décontractés. Tous vêtus de couleurs sombres, je me demande où m’a-t-on apporté. Voilà qu’une bannière m’annonce que je suis à la Semaine de la Mode.

Mon instinct me trompe presque jamais. Mon choix vestimentaire est équilibré pour l’événement: Edgy et Trendy.  Je replace une mèche et me voilà encerclé de jolies demoiselles. Un sourire, deux sourires..Les flashs vont d’un côté et de l’autre et le rouge vif de ma veste de cuir transperce l’objectif.

D’un côté ce rouge a un aspect d’attraction, de séduction et de l’autre, il attire les regards. Je ne vous mentirai pas que dans cette même veste, je verrais les célèbres James Dean, Johnny Depp et Brad Pitt la porter. Cette veste en cuir nommée "Ralphy"  est sans aucun doute pour le tombeur confiant, décontracté et gentlemen. Attention mesdames, cet homme se trouve peut-être à votre porte !

Vous savez.. mon entrée dans la pièce m’a valu bien des regards..S’il était encore en vie, Michael Jackson aurait probablement arboré cette veste avec fierté et détermination (lui qui n’a jamais eu froid aux yeux!)

Ralphy est sans aucun doute éclectique! Cette veste de cuir de coupe Européenne est assez ajustée et elle est ornée de fermetures éclair le long des manches et à l’avant, lui donnant son look moderne et décontracté.  

 

"Ralphy"

Couleurs: marine, cognac, blanc sauf le noir.
Grandeurs: 36 à 50.
Prix:1200.00$

par Nicolas_bg



 

Collection Element'Air

Photo: Vincent Chine

Model: Jean Philippe D.@ Orange Model

Yes, this is "Michelle"

As I write this blog entry, my eyes are tempted to watch the random Monday night movie playing in my living room. "Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle" is one of those empowering girl movies that when after the credits finish rolling, you move a little differently in your daily activities. Simply climbing up the stairs turns in to lunging. Taking out the garbage involves some karate moves and cooking dinner becomes a circus performance. A movie where you truly believe you can take on the world. If film can make you feel this invincible, why not the “Michelle” coat by Ralph Leroy?

Inspired by the wife of the 44th incumbent President of the United States, Michelle Obama is truly the First Lady of fashion. She is able to take risks which is uncommon for ladies in the White House and distinguishes herself beyond a somber pant and jacket. Not only is she always optimistically chic, a wonderful Mother and supportive wife, she has begun a program to put an end against the American Plague of childhood obesity. Talk about a productive day! It is no wonder the "Michelle" coat from Ralph Leroy's Fall/Winter 2011 collection is properly named. It is for the woman-er, lady on the move who holds a full agenda every day. She has no need to stop and smell the roses when she is the one having them specially flown in from the English Gardens for her Fall Social the upcoming weekend. The "Michelle" wool coat will keep you warm without a doubt! It's interior is lined in a gorgeous silk and will have you feeling elegant all day long.

Michelle Obama is well on her way to leaving a stylish legacy on par with other White House arbiters such as Jacqueline Kennedy. It is no coincidence two First Lady's have been mentioned in representing Ralph Leroy's Fall/Winter 2011 collection. These ladies are powerful and have not been called iconic for just any reason. The "Michelle" coat will have you feeling strong and reminiscent of all the accomplishments and footprints you will leave in history. However, even if by day you are fighting bad guys because Charlie says so and by night you are attending a cocktail party in Old Montreal, your Michelle coat will be most ideal. 

After all, you don't need to be a First Lady to feel like a lady.

by Blame_coco

Available in various colors.
Sizes 4-18 available.

sensibly priced at 775.00$
 

Collection Element'Air

Photo: Vincent Chine

Model: Sophia 

Photos Michelle Obama: Googles

There's no smoke whithout fire

 

Stay TUNED
 

You can't go wrong with Oli & Elvi

A double-breasted blazer and just below the knee pencil skirt have got to be the two pieces of clothing with the strongest stereotype. You always see the two together on that bland, bald, dusty, white mannequin at Banana Republic or more bluntly put at "Femme de Carriere" and think "working girl" instantly. The pair is trendy every other season but will always remain a must-have outfit to have in any gal's wardrobe at any age. Ralph Leroy has roughed up this stereotype and has brought the stuffy skirt and blazer idea up in between where your vivacious weekend skirt and vintage designer jacket hang.                                          

From this season's Air Element collection, Ralph Leroy presents us with the Oli, a well adjusted, geometric inspired mid waist blazer. With it's 3/4 sleeve, it will not be weighing you down in the office or have you feel uncomfortable extending your arm for the many handshakes at Fashion Week.The Elvi skirt is it's sidekick. The modern skirt hits above the knee and has an unexpected upwards dive that shows just enough. We had a bit of a blond moment when pondering who will do the Elvi the most justice. Scarlett Johansson posing on the red carpet for pictures, Kelly Osbourne adding a touch of her punk-flair with red 7" pumps and someone a little more close to home. Robyn Chalmers of Fashionista 514 having the most fun with this piece bringing her sense of style and elegance to it.


Don't begin to think your Ralph Leroy Oli and Elvi are meant to stay together as one in holy matrimony for all eternity.(Come on, we know 2 out of 3 marriages end in divorce anyway) The Oli blazer will go beautifully with your favorite pair of dark blue wash jeans, a cotton-linen chemise with hair pulled back. These pieces are meant to showcase your beauty and style distinction. Do so by accessorizing with chandelier earrings. You cannot go wrong with the Oli and Elvi pair this season because no one will ever do wrong in assuming you are a contained stuffy office girl again.

Sizes range from 4-12 and is sensibly priced at: Jacket Oli: 410.00$

Skirt Elvi:  214.00$

 

 By Blame Coco

Collection Element'Air

Photo: Vincent Chine

Model: Sophia

Une petite robe nommée ‘’Jackie’’

English version click here

Cette année, HISTORIA nous a dévoilé "Les Kennedys" dans une série de quatre épisodes avec Katie Holmes comme actrice principale mais tout d’abord, en nous présentant une première dame emblématique: Jacqueline Kennedy.

Il est universellement connu que cette brune au carré a apporté à la politique une mode intemporelle et impeccable tout en laissant un héritage dans les murs de la Maison Blanche. (Maintenant, c’est Michelle Obama qui porte ​​l'héritage de ce style). Jackie a été honorée par des milliers de couvertures de magazines et d'innombrables livres et articles qui ont été écrits à son sujet.

Étant un des sujets de recherche les plus populaires dans le monde, Jackie peut ne pas avoir été la plus belle, mais elle avait le sens du Style et une parfaite maîtrise de ce qui mettait son corps en valeur. Il était donc naturel pour Ralph Leroy de concevoir cette robe en s’imaginant Jackie Kennedy qui transcende des années 1960 jusqu’à aujourd’hui. C’est pourquoi il a décidé de nommer cette robe "Jackie"!

La robe «Jackie» de la collection automne 2011 de Ralph Leroy n'est pas sans rappeler les années 1960 avec la construction du tweed et de l’inattendue soie cramoisie. (Dois-je en dire plus? Oh, mais oui je le ferai). Vu partout dans les défilés, le rouge est la couleur du pouvoir donnant à cette robe un aspect de puissance que vous ne trouverez pas dans n'importe quelle pièce de tweed traditionnelle.
Cette robe a été conçue pour la femme de carrière puissante avec une forte énergie coulant dans ses veines. Cette femme aura fait son choix parmi ses plus belles robes pour porter cette robe au bureau en ajoutant un trench-coat pour les matins frisquets et en portant un manteau pour la soirée. Il est fortement recommandé de laisser ses cheveux vers le bas et de porter sa ‘’Jackie’’ durant un cocktail. Bref, cette robe a été créée autour d’une saison entière. (Ne soyez pas timide pour ajouter une touche de rouge à lèvres. Tous les yeux seront rivés vers vous!)

Des habits tweed de Chanel au tweed rose de Jackie Kennedy, nous ne pourrons jamais les oublier. Chaque femme a besoin d’un morceau de tweed dans sa garde-robe. Ralph Leroy a voulu pousser sa démarche de création encore plus loin en ajoutant de la soie luxueuse aux poignets avec un collet pliable afin de rendre cette robe plus moderne / contemporaine.
Tout comme il y a une Jackie Kennedy, il n'y a aucun modèle identique que vous trouverez cet automne, comme la robe de ‘’Jackie’’ par Ralph Leroy.

Les tailles vont de 4-18 et varient sensiblement autour de 375 $.

Par Blame Coco

Collection Element'Air

Photo Défilé: Jimmy Hammelin

Model: Antoinette (Agence Montage)

Photo Lookbook: Vincent Chine

Model: Sophia

Made in Qc, Canada

RALPH LEROY
Made in Qc, Canada

Ralph Leroy’s party at “La Porte Rouge” by Lipstick

As team Leroy was anxiously getting ready for the party at "La Porte Rouge" in honor of Ralph Leroy, we were conversing about how deserving Ralph was of such a thoughtful honor. The ladies were adorned with Kofi Collection masterpieces and Ralph without fail did not disappoint. He sported the perfect contrast of steel blue shirt with a winter green blazer and olive wool pants.

As we enter the room, we were greeted by the evermore sexy Patrick de Grâce, followed by Moon One television crew. (By the way, the crew followed Ralph’s every move all night long!) Everyone went nuts when Ralph was spotted. The VIP section couches covered with red velvet was reserved only for Ralph Leroy and his special guests. Patrick de Grâce set the night in motion with a round of Vodka shots. Then we danced to DJ Frigid hot mixes. Patrick, who threw the party in Ralph’s honor, opened the bar to team Leroy! We all had our glasses full with great cocktails but Ralph didn’t know what he wanted. The bartender promised to make him a drink that will knock his socks off. Boy, did he deliver! He concocted what he called the “Loverbird”. It’s a Martini with blueberry and other fruit juices that I can’t divulge. Before you know it, we were all having Loverbirds!

At one point of the night, Ralph was asked to say a few words. True to his charismatic self, he wowed the crowd in just a few simple sentences. “Are you having a good time?” He said. “Thank you everyone for coming. This was long overdue. But for those of you who are still talking about my kidnapping, well get over it! It made me the person that I am today. Now let’s have a party! And remember, that the NY’s Appollo theater makes superstars but tonight, La Porte Rouge and the Lipstick crew is hosting superstars; and we are all superstars tonight!” We all got a tad emotional but it’s exactly what needed to be said; since outpouring support has been flooding in from sall over the globe since Ralph’s interview with Nancy Roc of Metropolis.

The night continued with Ralph giving a few interviews. Team Leroy did a few interviews as well. Then we closed the night with Ralph on top of the bar giving the crowd -- his crowd -- his best rendition of Michael Jackson's famous moves.

Review by Maggie Hackett
Photo: Courtesy of Bradley Jay Hunt