Frame, the Los Angeles-based fashion brand, is ready to unveil the fourth drop of its collaboration with the Ritz Paris brand with expanded international distribution. Launching Wednesday, the Frame x Ritz Paris collection is a 35-piece limited-edition line that blends American sportswear classics with French sophistication.
The collection features colorblocking and new designs, including a cream cashmere sweater with button detail at the neck and cuffs, a nostalgic polo sweatshirt and a versatile silk scarf that transitions from boat to beach.
The hero piece of the collection is the trenchcoat, enhanced with silk scarf lining and gold Ritz Paris buttons for a polished look.
The sold-out Ritz Paris baseball cap is back, available in new colors that evoke a weathered look. The crewneck sweatshirts are offered in navy and cream and a new hunter green. A new colorway, embroidered with “Le Ritz, c’est Paris” is exclusive to both Frame and Ritz Paris e-commerce platforms. Rounding out the offerings are gold embroidered velvet slippers, a keepsake that brings the Ritz experience home.
Men’s looks included in the collection, with such pieces as the embroidered cashmere cardigan and embroidered polo. There are also unisex pieces such as cashmere sweaters, crewnecks and the Ritz baseball cap.
A look from Frame x Ritz Paris.
Courtesy of Ritz x Frame
For the fourth drop, Frame x Ritz Paris will be available in the “World of Frame and Ritz Paris,” with pop-ups at locations including Mall of Emirates, Bloomingdale’s Dubai, Galeries Lafayette, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman and Printemps.
The pop-ups follow the creative direction of Frame’s cofounder and creative director Erik Torstensson.
“This collection embodies a seamless blend of American cool and French elegance, capturing the essence of timeless style. We are excited to introduce new pieces that resonate with our global audience, we remain dedicated to creating a luxurious experience that celebrates the art of living well and this can be seen from the product all the way to the pop-ups,” Torstensson said.
When asked how Frame benefits from the partnership, Torstensson replied, “The Ritz Paris is one of the most iconic luxury brands in the world; it’s not just about an aesthetic, but an experience. To be able to marry the codes of Frame wih the identity of Ritz Paris is a way to bring that experience to a more diverse global audience for both brands.”
He explained that when they embarked upon this project, they envisioned a “one-off” project between the brands, but “we could never have anticipated its sweeping success.”
“Now, in its fourth iteration, we have explored many new and fun categories. We have seen pieces on resale sites selling for four times more than the original price and of course, we have loved to see our celebrity community from Hailey Bieber to Naomi Campbell in key pieces from the collection,” Torstensson said.
In determining which items to manufacture, Torstensson said Frame brings their expertise in atelier tailoring, cashmere craftsmanship and creative branding, while Ritz Paris “ensures that we maintain the highest standards of luxury with their iconic crest and the exceptional standards their brand is known for.” He said all of the items are sourced through Frame’s established supply chain.
Several years ago, Frame had a two-part project with The Carlyle in New York.
Torstensson said what makes this Ritz Paris collection special is a “laid-back insouciance.” He called the collection “a little preppy, a little sporty and always through the elegant lens of both brands.” He said the collection is about celebrating the art of living well.
Compared to previous drops, this fourth drop adds more luxury ready-to-wear items, such as leather jackets and trenchcoats.
Robert Swade, chief executive officer of Ritz Group, said, “It is fascinating to see how this partnership has evolved over time and become a trend that many others want to follow. This collaboration clearly acknowledges that the Ritz Paris brand, with its distinctive logo and coat of arms, resonates strongly as a symbol of luxury and prestige. The emotional connection between customers and the Ritz Paris aura is undeniable; our customers eagerly wear sweaters and caps proudly embroidered with the large coat of arms and Ritz logo. With strong customer success year after year, a Frame team that consistently brings new and fashionable ideas while respecting Ritz Paris’ core identity and creates collections that always result in high-quality products made from luxury materials, we are excited to continue with this collaboration.”
A look from Frame x Ritz.
Courtesy of Frame x Ritz
Asked why they like to do collaborations such as this, Swade told WWD, “This collaboration perfectly fits one of our business purposes: leveraging the unique status of Ritz Paris as the epitome of ultimate luxury, by developing a line of beautifully designed, exclusive high-end products which emotionally connect with consumers.”
Since the start of their collaboration with Frame, Swade said the most popular items have been those featuring prominent Ritz Paris branding, whether it is the iconic logo or the coat of arms. “This highlights the strong desirability of the Ritz Paris brand and confirms the significant opportunity for us in the product sector,” Swade said.
Swade said the collaboration “blends the ultimate luxury that defines the Ritz Paris brand with the contemporary ultra-trendy appeal of a California fashion brand.”
Another benefit of the collaboration is allowing the Ritz to reach a younger consumer. “It infuses a touch of modernity into the Ritz brand, while providing an opportunity to broaden our customer base and engage with Millennials and Gen Z audiences,” he said.
The limited-edition collection will be available in Frame’s 16 stores, at frame-store.com, at the Ritz Paris concept store, and at ritzparis.com/e-boutique, as well as luxury boutiques and department stores globally, with prices ranging from $98 to $1,998. The size range is XS to XXL. It will be available until stocks lasts.
Asked whether there will be a fifth drop, Torstensson said, “We are very open to a discussion for a fifth…if it’s what the people want.”