CHLOE Magazine Fall Winter 2017 CHLOE Fall Winter 2017 Digital | Page 21

2017
Joseph Ribkoff salutes his 60th
Anniversary with Fashion Icon Jeanne
Beker at the Cabaret , Montreal Casino
2017
JOSEPH RIBKOFF
has been making waves in the fashion industry for the
past six decades. As the son of European immigrants,
Ribkoff opened his first fashion studio in Montreal in
1957—where he also presented his first-ever collection.
Right from the start, his designs emulated a genuine
look that set his clothing
apart from the crowd.
In 1992, he branched out further to tackle the European
markets. Flash forward a couple of years—and a few design
awards—and Ribkoff’s move to Europe was labeled as a
“rocket launch” in the German press.
Today, 60 years later, Joseph Ribkoff is a well-established
fashion brand. His designs are sold in more than 60 coun-
tries and are loved by style-conscious women all over the
world. Ribkoff’s designs are bold at times and always distin-
guished. In addition to a wide variety of all-day looks, the
collections feature inspiring separates and basics to seamlessly
mesh with your ever-expanding wardrobe.
The latest collection from Joseph Ribkoff shows off a playful
side of the brand with floral details and a mix of colours.
It perfectly encapsulates the spring season. The kaleidoscope
of bright hues is featured in vibrant prints, off-the-shoulder
detailing and statement sleeves that are an impeccable trend
for both spring and summer. Ribkoff’s body-highlighting
elements ensure a flattering silhouette for all women.
On the other hand, the winter collection shows off a more
timeless approach to dressing. The collection features retro
checks, tweeds, and patterned knits that give off a feeling of
nonchalant elegance. There are ribbed details as well as chro-
matic textures that add depth to your everyday looks.
For flashier, eye-catching appeal, the black & white state-
ment jackets do just the trick. Gold, glitter, sexy décolletés,
sculpted pleats and a wide range of trousers also litter the col-
lection with a special kind of excitement that Joseph Ribkoff
is renowned for.
The designer loves recounting the tale of a woman who
asked him, “How is it that you are so acquainted with both
my head and my body?” From this anecdote he created his
slogan: Nobody knows me like Joseph Ribkoff. And it really
is true. Those who have had the pleasure of donning one
of Ribkoff’s designs know the boost of confidence that his
clothing offers.
In celebration of this significant anniversary, we caught up
with the designer to chat about his adoration of fashion, his
inspirations and why women can rely on his brand.
CHLOE MAGAZINE: This year your brand marked its
60th anniversary. How did you celebrate this outstanding
event?
JOSEPH RIBKOFF: We celebrated our 60th anniversary
with employees including sewers, stock room, sales, and cus-
tomer service teams. The anniversary was a family celebra-
tion with everyone attached to the company. It was held at
the Casino, a Montreal-based venue that hosted all employ-
ees for this very exciting period of our history!
CHLOE MAGAZINE: Can you give us an idea of the per-
son behind the brand?
JOSEPH RIBKOFF: The person behind the brand in Joseph
Ribkoff is full of jouissance. The kind of energy that drives
him towards his most favourite part of the job is women.
His mind is on fire when he is in the mist of thinking of
women and what they wear.
CHLOE MAGAZINE: Every piece in your collection
indicates that you adore women of all kinds. Is there a muse
behind the designs?
JOSEPH RIBKOFF: It all began with Marilyn Monroe.
CHLOE MAGAZINE: What inspired your affinity for
fashion?
JOSEPH RIBKOFF: It grew out of my own love for
fashion for men and extends out to an affinity for women.
CHLOE MAGAZINE: What do you think of the “size zero”
trend in fashion?
JOSEPH RIBKOFF: I do not think too much of it.
The inspiration began with Marilyn, and these are our loyal
consumers.
CHLOE MAGAZINE: Women have come to rely on your
collections and know that they will always be best dressed
when they wear them. How does the fast-fashion industry
affect you?
JOSEPH RIBKOFF: It does not stress me, it energizes our
whole design team, and we are a team that has a young spirit
and a love for servicing our customers. It is an absolute plea-
sure to be part of this positive energy that takes place with
the people we work with and serve.