Nina Ricci is known for her elegant, refined and romantic designs.
A Bit of Background
- Nina Ricci was born, Maria Nielli in Turin Italy, on January 14, 1883. She then moved to Florence at the age of 5 and later at the age of 12 her family moved to France.
- She began an apprenticeship at the age of 13 for a local dressmaker and continued to explore her love of fashion and became the head of a salon at the age of 18.
- In 1904, she married jeweler Luigi Ricci, and her name became Maria Ricci.
- Four years later, Nina joined the house of Raffin as a designer and she remained there for 20 years.
- Later, Ricci founded her own House of Ricci, with her son Robert Ricci, who handled the business aspects while she focused on designing.
- The House of Ricci grew throughout the thirties and their one room maison couture, grew to 11 floors in 3 buildings, with the manufacturing system of WWII, helped to create leather goods and fashion accessories.
- With the second World War over, Robert Ricci, along with Lucien Lelong, the President of the Chambre de Commerce, hatched an idea to raise money for war relief, and revive the role of haute couture for the average woman. Over one hundred and fifty mannequins from Balenciaga and Madame Gres, were placed at an exhibition held at the Louvre. The success of the exhibit in Paris allowed for a tour throughout Europe and later the United States.
- By the early 1950′s Nina was nearing her seventies, and began to withdraw from designing. With the help of her son, Jules-Francios Crahay, was named the head designer in 1954.
- Nina died on November 30, 1970, at the age of 87.
Outfit Number One
When I saw this look, I fell in love with the coat, and stunning shades and accessories!
To recreate the look, start with a white skater style dress from Topshop, and top it off with a pink and lace outercoat. Next add a pair of mary jane pumps, a floral clutch and a pair of cat-eye sunglasses.
Outfit Number Two
This look is also from Nina’s 2012 Spring collection, and looks absolutely perfect for a hot summer night out for a date!
Start with a coral asymmetrical hemline dress, and dress it up with teal accessories! Add a pair of pumps, a bracelet, earrings and a fun clutch!
Outfit Number Three
This was just one of the ads for Nina’s 2012 Spring Collection, and it is just too cute!
For this look, I thought of this adorable dress from ASOS, with it’s fun pattern and cutout! To keep with the color palette add a pair of coral sandals, mint green jewelry and a white handbag!
What do you think of Nina Ricci’s designs? Would you wear any of these outfits? Let me know in a comment below!
*Sparkle On and Wear Bows*
That coat is amazing. I love Nina Ricci..