From the Closet of: Amy Fine Collins

Label: Chado Ralph Rucci

Era: 2000s

Size: Small

About the Item:

“I was a bit adrift after Geoffrey Beene’s death, and several friends—who were clients of Ralph Rucci—kept telling me to go to him, that I’d feel at home in his clothes. I ignored it at first, but after hearing it a few more times, I became a client myself,” says Amy.

“Ralph worked a lot with exotic skins—crocodile, ostrich—and I bought two of these skirts in unusual colors, one mint and one coral,” she says of this piece. Crafted in alligator leather, the skirt is cut in a clean, straight silhouette that lets the material speak for itself. The softly luminous mint-green tone highlights the natural pattern of the skin, giving it depth without the need for additional detail—very much in keeping with Rucci’s restrained, material-first approach.

“I would wear this one with a solid cashmere turtleneck, black or brown, opaque stockings, and boots—very monochrome as a backdrop. And then I’d add a vintage YSL faux malachite chain belt from the late ’70s or early ’80s, with all these shades of green. I even had Manolo sandals in the same color, so it could work for spring or summer as well,” says Amy.

About the Label:

Founded in 1994 by Ralph Rucci, Chado Ralph Rucci is known for its uncompromising approach to craftsmanship and couture-level technique. The name “Chado”—the Japanese tea ceremony—reflects Rucci’s focus on discipline, precision, and quiet ritual in the making of clothes. One of the few American designers invited to show on the official Paris couture calendar, Rucci built his reputation on meticulous tailoring, hand-finished details, and a deep respect for materials, often working with rare textiles and exotic skins.

Measurements:

Waist: 13.5”
Hip: 17”
Length: 21” 

Fabric:

Alligator skin

Condition:

Item is in good vintage condition. Spots of discoloration at the back as seen in photos.