Ralph Rucci: Autobiography of a Fashion Designer

Ralph Rucci is an American fashion icon, widely praised within the fashion world for his exquisite technique. His work attracts an exclusive high-end clientele, including the socialite Deeda Blair and interior designer Charlotte Moss. Michelle Dockery of Downton Abbey was unforgettable at the 2013 SAG Awards in her vintage Rucci dress. Born and reared in Philadelphia, Rucci earned a philosophy degree at Temple University, before entering the fashion business, training under Halston and a Balenciaga patternmaker. He held his first formal show in 1981, and launched his own house, Chado: Ralph Rucci, in 1996. In 2002, Rucci was invited by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture to show in Paris - the first American-based designer to ever receive the honour. In Autumn 2012 he received his "Fashion Walk of Fame" plaque on Seventh Avenue in Manhattan. In April 2012 Rucci was the keynote speaker at the seventh annual Design Leadership Summit in Marrakech. Photographer, Baldomero Fernandez, has been taking pictures since age 14. His work has appeared in Life, The New Yorker, Vanity Fair and W Magazine. His many honours include the Communication Arts Magazine Editorial Award of Excellence, received in 2005 for his work done in Cuba.

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