From Haiti to High Fashion: Ron Delice’s 20-Year Journey to Redefining Men’s Style
Ron & Ron, a menswear label specializing in made-to-measure suits, was founded in 1999 by twin brothers Ronald and Rony Delice.
The brand quickly gained recognition from top publications like The New York Times, earning prestigious awards such as Fashion Group International’s “Rising Star Award” and Gen-Art’s “Design Fashion Award.” Their designs attracted celebrities including Will Smith, Samuel L. Jackson, Courtney B. Vance, and Jamie Foxx, as well as star athletes like Latrell Sprewell and Curtis Martin.
In this interview, co-founder Ron Delice reflects on his journey, drawing inspiration from his Haitian heritage and Brooklyn’s Little Haiti. His designs celebrate individuality and redefine modern elegance.
What inspired you to start your menswear brand?
My brother Rony and I were inspired by our parents. Our mother was a seamstress, and our father was a tailor, and they instilled in us the importance of presentation and craftsmanship from an early age. Our mother always said, ‘When you have no money in your pocket… the way you present yourself, your clothes, your demeanor, makes a difference.’
Moving to New York from Haiti fueled our passion for fashion; I remember walking through Brooklyn’s Little Haiti, where older gentlemen would step out in their Sunday best, often wearing classic wide-lapel jackets from the ’70s. There was a real appreciation for these clothes—you could tell they took such good care of them.
Also, Cary Grant, Sidney Poitier, Sammy Davis Jr.—their silhouettes were huge influences. I can still watch those films and spot looks that would work even now.
After studying at the Fashion Institute of Technology and working at Beau Brummel, we recognized a gap in the market for bold, made-to-measure suits that reflect our roots and individuality. Clients would often come to us, asking for the looks we were wearing, which we were tailoring and styling ourselves.
Thanks to Avram Goldman, one of the partners at Beau Brummel, who saw our potential, we were able to secure our first investment and officially launch our brand: Ron & Ron. Our mission was always about bringing out the peacock in men and redefining elegance.
How has your Haitian heritage influenced your designs and business philosophy?
Being Haitian is being part of a proud people, and one thing Haitians are especially proud of is our creative culture. Haiti itself is a creative mecca—as soon as you touch down, you’re surrounded by art. Even the taptap buses are expressive. On each block, there’s an opportunity to buy some kind of artwork, a beaded flag, or a painting.
For us, being creative businessmen wasn’t just about making clothes. Rony has an exceptional eye for interior design, as seen in the photos here, which showcase Haitian artwork in his space. My creative journey also led me to produce the Ole Ole LaKol album, blending music with our legacy—I also styled the singers for the cover art.
Our work has never been just about fashion; it’s about honoring and sharing the beauty of Haitian culture in everything we create. This definitely shaped our approach to our design, inspiring us to blend vibrant colors, mix patterns, and upgrade the seriousness of the suit with playful linings.
What significant changes have you noticed in the fashion industry since the ’90s?
The industry has evolved a lot since the ’90s, especially for Black creatives. Back then, fashion felt more niche, with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and individual expression. Opportunities for Black designers were limited, and with so few of us in the industry, it often fostered competition over camaraderie. I remember situations where we were asked to downplay connections with clients or let others take credit for our creative direction.
Today, things are different. The digital age has brought more accountability and inclusivity. If someone takes credit for your work now, they face real repercussions online. People also want to see brands that reflect the world they live in, which is something we’ve always done. We ensure our casting is diverse—not just ethnically, but also across ages. We love seeing an elegant, mature gentleman in our clothes, a nod to the people-watching we did in Brooklyn.
The digital era also popularized fast fashion, with trends moving at lightning speed. Consumers are inundated with new styles, creating opportunities and challenges for designers striving to stay true to their vision. Every piece we create is one-of-a-kind and sustainable—a value that’s gaining recognition today but has always been central to us.
A Ron & Ron suit offers a bespoke experience unique to each client, guiding them through fabric choices, the most flattering suit style, and creative consultation to bring out the best in their image. It is about helping you find your unique style, not following a trend, and expressing that through tailoring.
Where do designers find inspiration in today’s fast-paced digital age?
Inspiration is everywhere if you are someone who looks to be inspired. As a menswear designer I can find inspiration in women’s fashion, for example. I admire the creativity and tailoring in women’s suits, their openness to color, and the attention to detail—even down to the choice of buttons. These are elements we incorporate into our designs.
I also think if you have a unique perspective, be it from your heritage or your upbringing, that could be a great source of inspiration. I still find inspiration from those streets in Little Haiti and sometimes even from our children.
We often design with them in mind; they bring fresh ideas and perspectives that keep us on our toes. My daughters created a bag accessory that is inspired by Haitian beaded artwork and it is beautiful.
What advice would you give to aspiring fashion designers, especially those from underrepresented communities?
Stay true to yourself and continue pursuing your vision, even if obstacles arise. Believe in the value of your unique perspective. Fashion can be challenging, and designers from underrepresented backgrounds may feel pressure to conform.
But remember: your culture, story, and experiences are assets that can set you apart. Invest time in mastering your craft, never compromise on quality, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.
This journey requires resilience, but knowing you’re creating something that fills a void and helps others shine makes it all worth it.
Cover photo credit: Sulaah Bien-Aime
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