Making of Ralph & Russo Couture SS16: Behind the Scenes

Go behind the scenes and see what happens at Ralph & Russo before a couture fashion show. Discover the craftsmanship and view couture SS16 dresses up close! 

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I wrote a review of Ralph & Russo SS16 couture fashion show already. But because we can’t get enough of this dreamlike collection, I also wanted to share the backstage imagery to show you what happens behind the scenes during the making of couture.

Hand Painting

Here’s the first look in the fashion show – a white gown with sapphire and pink flowers:

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The peonies were handpainted inspired by precious stone jewelry and “Chinese ancestral calligraphy” which then had embroidered petals appliquéd on them.

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Here’s the sheer kimono that also uses this hand-painting:

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Embroidery

Lots of gowns used appliqué and threadwork – using silk, organza and crystals.

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Some dresses had circular sequin patterns. Like here, micro-sequins are used in this dress for creating an iridescence that mimics pearls:

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Floral Applique

Decadent floral appliques were used – handmade with feathers and petals cut out of fabric:
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Perhaps Spring is the inspiration, because the flowers were then sewn together next to each other to cover entire surfaces.

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Some gowns had silk flowers and petals cut out and reappliqued on twill for a feminine allure:

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Lace

Chantilly lace was used for what the house calls “dreamcatcher dresses”, rightly so! And of course, it also had appliqué.

Bell Sleeves

To give more of that dreamy “weightless” feel:

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Accessories

Accessories are the best part. We saw lots of pointy pumps to match the dresses. Here are two pairs, one embellished with metal feathers and the other with metallic acanthus leaf. I’m overly obsessed with the Acanthus leaf since I visited Rome, so I’m all over these!

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And matching handbags with a gold feather for a handle:

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Backstage Beauty

The makeup was very Spring – lightly winged eyeliner and natural lip color. The face was kept flawless with no contouring but lots of moisture and some highlighting, to give a dewy, youthful look.

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And the hair was tucked into low buns, sometimes with ribbon headbands. Slight flyways on the sides of the face made the look seem more effortless and doable.

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The Pink Dress

It’s more of a blush pink. The dress was strapless with waves of organza ribbon and enormous volume.

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Backstage & Fitting

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The Show

For the full gallery and review, check out the Ralph & Russo SS16 show article.

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The Bride

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The Creators:

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Photo Credits: Ralph & Russo

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