Richard Robinson Fashion Design Academy offers young artists a unique camp experience

Your young designer’s dreams of catwalks, high fashion and red carpets can come true right here in Ottawa.

This summer, your fashion-obsessed child can attend the same school that trained well-known designers Frank Sukhoo, Eve Gravel, Louise Campeau and Amy Scarlett, the latter of whom has dressed Lady Gaga, Machine Gun Kelly and Avril Lavigne.

Canada’s only haute couture design college, the world-renowned Richard Robinson Fashion Design Academy— which focuses on bespoke clothing—trains fashion designers through its full- and part-time programs.

While full-time program graduates receive a diploma and are equipped with the knowledge and skills to excel in any domain of the fashion industry worldwide, young people can get an early start at the school’s summer camps, says Renee Berezowski, owner and director of the Richard Robinson Fashion Design Academy.

These fashion camps for children ages 8 to 17 run by a major fashion house are unique in Canada, and “offer a range of projects that keep our students engaged and learning,” says Berezowski. “One of our very popular projects is sewing bucket hats.”

“Our summer camps consistently attract a loyal following, with many participants returning year after year,” Berezowski says. “This enduring enthusiasm often leads them to advance into our full-time fashion designer program.” Thanks to a growing interest in sewing and fashion design, the camps sell out annually.

“One of our campers has garnered a substantial following on Instagram by creating custom Barbie clothing, showcasing the skills learned at our camp,” says Berezowski. “Additionally, other campers have ventured into local farmers markets, successfully selling items they crafted during their time at the camp, such as scrunchies and tote bags.”

The academy also gives local models their start through annual casting calls. “We showcase these talented individuals on our runways and feature them prominently across our social media channels,” Berezowski says.

 

 

Website

richardrobinson.com/

 

Who is Richard Robinson?

 

 

Designer Richard Robinson has dressed Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, Margaret Trudeau, Aline Chretien, Michaelle Jean. And then there was that iconic 25 karat diamond metal cat suit Robinson created for Marlen Cowpland.

It all started more than half a century ago, when Robinson—inspired by the knowledge he gained at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne and while completing internships at Dior and Yves St Laurent ateliers in Paris—established Richard Robinson Fashion Design Academy on Sussex Drive.

“His friends frequently requested lessons on the techniques he had learned,” says Renee Berezowski. “These informal sessions gradually evolved into the fully-fledged academy we recognize today.”

Robinson and his wife Louise are originally from the national capital region and chose to base their fashion design operations here, says Berezowski, “with the goal of nurturing a vibrant fashion scene reminiscent of larger, well-established fashion capitals.”

 

 

Dress for success

The owner of Richard Robinson Fashion Design Academy gives her fashion advice

Women should choose to wear what feels comfortable and suits their unique body type, says Renee Berezowski. “Understanding how clothing fits is crucial in enhancing one’s self-esteem and feeling beautiful,” Berezowski says. “Bespoke clothing plays a significant role in this, as custom-fit garments are tailored to accommodate individual measurements and preferences, ensuring both comfort and elegance. Embracing bespoke fashion can significantly boost confidence by highlighting personal style and ensuring the best possible fit.”

The academy trains students to understand and skillfully fit various body types, emphasizing the art of creating bespoke garments, says Berezowski. “Investing in custom-made clothing is not only about enjoying a superior fit but also about the enduring quality of the garments.”

Choosing bespoke clothing is also a sustainable choice for the environment. Unlike mass-produced fashion, bespoke garments are typically made with higher quality materials and crafted to last longer, reducing waste and the frequency of replacements, says Berezowski. “This approach not only preserves resources but also promotes a more sustainable fashion industry. By opting for bespoke, individuals invest in pieces that are not only beautiful and long-lasting but also environmentally friendly.”