Richard Robinson is a renowned fashion designer particularly known for his work in haute couture and his influence on Canadian fashion. 

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CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

• Held a position in the studios of Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent.

• He founded his fashion house "The Richard Robinson Academy of Fashion Design", located on Sussex Drive, in Ottawa, in 1969.

• Known for haute couture, he has dressed Canadian and international royalty and celebrities.

• Attracted international attention for the creation of a gold-plated bustier accented with a 27-carat yellow diamond, the work of which was valued at more than a million dollars.

• Held an exhibition at the "Art Gallery of Hamilton".

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EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION

Richard Robinson was born in Gatineau, Quebec. The path of this young prodigy began at the age of five, when he already showed an interest in fabrics and clothing. Little did he know, at the time, that this fascination would lead to an international career as one of Canada's leading fashion designers. By the age of 14, Robinson already knew he wanted to be a fashion designer. In high school, when his teacher asked all the students to write an essay on their plans for the future, Richard made his intentions to work in fashion known, and with the same enthusiasm he also told his classmates. “Everyone laughed,” he says, ”even the teacher, who was a man. Later that day, the teacher approached him and said, “There are many other things a man can do in life.” Robinson was so upset, he stopped telling people he wanted to be a fashion designer.

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Fortunately, another teacher who had heard of his aspirations advised him to pursue his dream. Determined and always listening to his instincts, he completed a two-year program at the École des Métiers Commerciaux in Montreal, and after graduating, he left to study in Paris. The Robinson family had no money for such expensive studies in those days, but a friend of his father's had heard of his dream and granted him a loan.

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Robinson arrives in Paris at the age of 17. His teacher joined him to show him the city at the same time. He guided him and advised him to find a job in fashion before the start of the school year. The student let himself be whisked away, heart pounding, to Christian Dior's atelier where, after an exhilarating discussion, he landed a job, which he held for a year and a half, some days content to help with only the pins. He says he learned more at Dior's atelier than at school. “It was a dream come true to work in a couture house” In Paris, he also worked at Yves Saint Laurent's atelier. After three years at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, Robinson returned to Canada and, in 1969, opened his own boutique with the help of the same family friend and the support of his immediate family. 

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EDUCATION

He attended the prestigious École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne in Paris, where he acquired in-depth training in fashion design and haute couture. His studies in Paris greatly influenced his style and technique.

 

CAREER

• Founded the Richard Robinson Academy in Ottawa, a respected fashion school where he trained numerous students in the art of fashion design. The school is renowned for its rigorous curriculum and commitment to excellence in training future designers.​

• Creations and Influence: Robinson is renowned for his elegant, sophisticated designs, often inspired by classic European fashion. His collections include evening gowns, high-end daywear and bespoke pieces. He is often praised for his attention to detail and impeccable craftsmanship.​

• Shows & Recognition: He regularly organizes fashion shows in Ottawa and participates in various fashion events across Canada and internationally. His creations have been worn by numerous celebrities (e.g. Brigitte Bardot, Elizabeth Taylor, Mila Mulroney, Aline Chrétien, Michaëlle Jean, Louise Arbour, Marlen Cowpland, Nicki Minaj, etc.) and featured in renowned fashion publications.​

• The Art Gallery of Hamilton has organized a six-month exhibition of his work, entitled “Runway: Contemporary Fashion by Richard Robinson” curated by Sara Knelman. The exhibition paid tribute to the designer as an outstanding Canadian artist and showcased some of his most spectacular garments. Among them, the outfit that put the designer - and Ottawa - on the fashion map: the million-dollar catsuit, with rhinestone-encrusted, diamond-embellished gold bib, worn by socialite Marlen Cowpland.

 

PHILOSOPHY AND STYLE

• Design philosophy: Richard Robinson advocates an approach to design that combines tradition and innovation. He makes a point of using high-quality materials and maintaining high manufacturing standards.​

• Style: His style is often described as elegant, timeless and refined, with a contemporary twist. It is inspired by classic sewing techniques while incorporating modern elements to meet the needs of today's customers.

 

​CONTRIBUTIONS AND LEGACY

• Contribution to education: Through his academy, Robinson has trained generations of designers who are pursuing their own careers in the fashion industry, contributing to the growth of Canadian fashion.

• Community involvement: He is also committed to various community initiatives, often using his platform to support social and charitable causes.

RECOGNITION AND AWARDS

• Awards: Richard Robinson has received numerous awards for his work in fashion and his impact on the Canadian fashion industry. He is often invited to participate as a judge or advisor in various fashion competitions and events.

• Prestigious awards: Mr. Robinson won the Palme d'Or in Nice in February 2001. Premier International for a floral dress design at the Casino du Lac Leamy. Presentation of an art collection for Queen Elizabeth II, during her visit to Canada, July 1-2, 2010. The Art Gallery of Hamilton organized a six-month exhibition of his work, entitled “Runway: Contemporary Fashion by Richard Robinson”.

 

PRIVATE LIFE

• He married Louise Charron, his first client.

• Together, they have three children and eight grandchildren.

• Louise was his business partner, managing the commercial aspects.

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HERITAGE

• With over 50 years in the fashion industry, he continues to inspire and train future designers through his academy.

• Celebrated for his timeless creations and contributions to Canadian fashion.

 

Richard Robinson continues to be an influential figure in Canadian fashion, inspiring through his dedication to the art of couture and his commitment to excellence.

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