Canadian Chic : Rudsak

BY: VANESSA MANNO, FW WRITER

What started as a family business has grown into an infamous fashion house both within and outside of Canada. Launched in 1994, the small family business has grown into a luxury brand with eleven locations across North America, while still remaining loyal to the RUDSAK tradition: creativity, quality, international flare. Evik Astoorian, the man behind the Montreal label, has built RUDSAK up to be synonymous with energy and ambition. His love for raw materials and neat lines mixed with clean zippers and pockets have become RUDSAK’s signature look. Fashion Weekly caught up with RUDSAK and learned the brand’s signature look is just as detailed as their clientele. “The result is a team-driven fashion company dedicated to customers who want to define themselves their way. For the self-assured, the confident and even the artists who won’t be told what to wear. For those who know themselves and know what they want.” Katherine Therien, a member of the design team at RUDSAK, lets us travel through the design history of the Canadian fashion brand.

Inspiration for new collections often start with one object or image that sparks an entire story for the collection. When designing, Therien says, “I pick a theme that would guide me and represent the trend of the season to form a harmonious story that will end up as the collection. I’m often influenced by traveling and draw on multicultural aspects from different countries.” The story told at LG Toronto Fashion Week was the tale of the breezy summer days of the ’60’s, what RUDSAK calls ‘the traveler days.’ The spring collection transported us from Safari to Americana, while the design team worked with the “Rocker” look that has been the brands signature for several seasons. Keeping true to the brand name, the runway paraded clean lines and fitted shapes with attention to detail, that makes the RUDSAK brand timeless.

It’s the luxurious feel and international taste that has this Canadian brand soaring to heights. Though the brand’s success has trumped international borders, RUDSAK still celebrates their Canadian roots as they will be showing their Fall line at LG Fashion Week in March, and are the proud sponsors of Quebec’s Make a Wish Foundation. Attention to detail and celebrating their homegrown roots surely makes RUDSAK Canadian chic.

SIDEBAR – Katherine Therien shows Fashion Weekly what is hot for this chilly winter season for both guys and girls.

LGLLN9767 Mid-length gloves. “These lamb leather gloves are a
classic that can be worn with anything at any time. The gathered material along the wrist gives this style an elegant touch while staying classic and timeless.” Retail price: $75

LCONL1885 – “Our 3/4 length asymmetric down coat is a classic style that is sure to complement any outfit and keep you warm. Its fur-trimmed sleeves and removable fur collar add protection and elegance while its belted waist makes it feminine.” Retail Price: $395.00

MCOWL4350 “Constructed single breasted coat with stand collar and removable ribbed sleeves–our wool coat, completely lined, is the perfect option for those looking for a practical yet sophisticated coat. The 3 front pockets and zipper add a modern touch to this classic style.” Retail Price: $545

MHBCN2150 – “Our Double Pouch Laptop Briefcases 15 are the perfect solution for those looking for a stylish way to carry their laptops safely. This style’s two front pockets and side zipper make it practical while adding a very stylish touch. This bag can easily fit into an evolving wardrobe, season after season.” Retail Price: $325.00