Bringing a contemporary twist on the classic tuxedo, buyer-turned-designer Racil Chalhoub brings classic elements of Savile Row tailoring and Parisian materials with a Lebanese sensibility to create a unique collection for all women.
Born in Beirut and raised in Paris, she studied Fashion Design and Marketing in London at the American University. She returned to Beirut in 2006 to open a unique fashion concept store and organic café which then lead to her career as a fashion buyer. During her eight-year stint, Racil closely observed what women want from a wardrobe and was inspired by the potential of the tuxedo, it’s versatility and the subtle language of tailoring. The idea of Le Smoking remained with her and in 2015 she launched her eponymous brand RACIL setting up a studio in Notting Hill, London.
The collections have now grown to include dresses, tops and accessories and for SS18 Racil took inspiration from Geisha district in Kyoto, Japan. The range aims to show the boldly diverse spectrum of Japan with some of pieces designed is striking colours, while the rest feel softer with a focus on the kimono .
She said: “I have always been fascinated with kimonos. They tell stories about people’s lives and the women who wore them. It would be impossible for us to wear a traditional kimono today, so it’s about taking inspiration from it and translating it into modern day living.”
The ability to take inspiration and twist it to suit modern tastes is something Racil has managed to achieve with ease making her pieces not only a statement, but also timeless.
First part of SS18 collection hits the stores later this month.
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