Snuggling Up To More Ideas

Illustration by Rene Gruau

As the weeks become colder and the air more chilled, my thoughts turn toward the warmer styles of fall and winter. Things are slowing a little at the Ritzy Raven studio thanks to the oncoming holidays. Fear not, The Debut blouse is coming along, and we'll be back in full-tilt finalizing mode at the start of the new year.

Besides the fact that I'm personally in need of a new basic black winter coat, I'm also inspired to possibly create one for the Ritzy Raven line. This would most likely be a venture not taken up until next year, and only after currently planned designs prove to be successful enough.

I'd love to do a medium weight wool Art Deco era coat, similar to the ones illustrated above. Maybe with velvet instead of fur trimming? Fur is more costly and ethically risky to source these days, but there are some faux furs that are lovely. Or I could design an option that gives the wearer the ability to add their own vintage or faux fur collar?

Besides a coat, there is another outerwear option on my drawing board, but under wraps for now...pun quite possibly intended.

Inspirations And Sketches

Over this past weekend, I began drawing up a final list of items I'd like as debut pieces for the launch of Ritzy Raven. One of the inspirations behind RR is none other than the above pictured beauty, Marlene Dietrich. A shining star of the silver screen in pre-war Germany, and then a leading lady in Hollywood, her style and sex appeal has continued to inspire the art, beauty and fashion industry without skipping a beat. Equal parts femme fatale mixed with classic bombshell she has always, on varying levels, inspired my own personal style.
It's only natural that I would turn to such an icon to now play as muse to my own clothing line.

If I could do it, a four piece collection would include a dress, two blouses and one skirt for a spring or summer release.
Realistically, one or two items would be how I'd start things off, based on a limited pre-order run. A dress, or two separates like a blouse and skirt for instance.

For inspiration only, courtesy of a 1930s Vogue pattern

I have a sketch of one blouse style I want to have as a possible core piece for RR, and I'm still working out the skirt and a possible dress. With a mid-1930s theme, the blouse has wonderfully clean lines and a flattering cut popular during the era. Details are showcased in an appliqued ribbon design on the front. One option in black on black, the other in a coral shade with black detail. More colors in this core blouse style could happen for future seasons.

I may have people vote on the skirt; a trumpet silhouette or a tailored style, and button details at the front to add art deco flair. It will likely be made up in a nice gabardine suiting in black and perhaps an alternate color in future runs.
I'm starting off with black as my main color, in keeping with the brand theme, and adding color in corresponding pieces. If this initial micro collection works out, and I can raise enough funds to cover it, I have a vintage rayon print fabric in the works for future pieces that is absolutely fantastic.

While I won't be sharing any of my design sketches here yet, keep an eye on this page for more photos of mock-up designs, a new logo, imagery design, and all the lovely things to come.

Beginnings

COMING SOON!
From burlesque glamour girl, Vienna La Rouge, comes a collection of vintage inspired clothing and accessories for the stylish fashion maven.

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Designs are being finalized and the creation of prototypes will be underway after this September.
I know it seems a long way off, but not to worry. There were many events to prepare for over the summer and loose ends to tie up still, but as they say; good things come to those who wait (and perfect their plans).
Preparation is key right now. This blog will also get a face lift in the coming weeks, with a cleaner design and a focus on visual content ranging from sneak peeks to finalized looks.
Stay tuned!
Yours truly,