"No One Knows Me Like Joseph Ribkoff" — Celebrating the Designer's 60th Anniversary
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.
At that time—and arguably still today—the fashion scene was highly influenced by French Haute Couture collections, which were first debuted to select clientele and then modified to be affordable for the buying public. ‘Parisian Chic’ heavily inspired Ribkoff’s collections—while he still put his own spin on things.
Ribkoff’s high-fashion collections focus first and foremost on style with a nod to comfortable wearability and easy-care. Of course, never missing a beat when it comes to day-to-night styles, his collections exude a unique must-have quality.
In the first few years after founding his namesake brand, Joseph Ribkoff concentrated on establishing his label in both Canada and the United States—to an eager and stylish 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 countries and are loved by style-conscious women all over the world. Ribkoff’s designs are bold at times and always distinguished. 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 chromatic textures that add depth to your everyday looks.
For flashier, eye-catching appeal, the black & white statement jackets do just the trick. Gold, glitter, sexy décolletés, sculpted pleats and a wide range of trousers also litter the collection 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 Interview with Joseph Ribkoff
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 customer service teams. The anniversary was a family celebration with everyone attached to the company. It was held at the Casino, a Montreal-based venue that hosted all employees for this very exciting period of our history!
CHLOE MAGAZINE: Can you give us an idea of the person 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 pleasure to be part of this positive energy that takes place with the people we work with and serve.
This article was written by Melina Morry and appeared in Chloe Magazine's Fall/Winter 2017 print issue.