Charles Borg and Ron Maarschalkerweerd, who hail from the Republic of Malta, began working together back in the 90’s under the label Beatrix, focusing on evening and wedding couture. In 2003 they set up their current label: Charles & Ron. The vibe of the label is sultry, a throwback to the screen sirens of the 30’s and 40’s, and it appeals to the sexy, sophisticated woman. Their designs have a distinct Mediterranean influence, a nod to their heritage. Pops of color and smart ruffles adorn dramatic but wearable sheaths and separates. Their wild side was on display in their Fall 2009 collection, which showcased cropped furs layered over super-sheer long skirts. This team has range! The duo is now widely viewed as the top design team in Malta, and have shown their designs all over Europe, and even Canada. As busy as they are with their current line, they still continue to do the made-to-measure evening and bridal wear that marked their early days together. iFashion Network caught up with Charles and Ron and took 7 minutes of their time to ask all our burning questions…

iFashion: Do you have a special place where you create your designs?
Charles and Ron: We work from our studio, which is interconnected to our home. This has the advantage that we can work at any given time but it also means that our working day never really ends.

iFashion: What is your favorite line to create, Spring or Fall?
Charles and Ron: We don’t really have a favorite season… after one season it’s always fun to change to the other.

iFashion: Who is your favorite designer?
Charles and Ron: Roberto Cappuci.

iFashion: Who do you hope will someday wear your line?
Charles and Ron: We love dressing glamorous women; it doesn’t matter who they are.Making woman look their best and feel their best is what we strive to do.

iFashion: What personal quality do you believe is reflected in your work?
Charles and Ron: We are both very passionate about what we do and love life, and I think this is reflected in our work.

iFashion: Do you think a woman is sexier in sneakers or stilletos? Why?
Charles and Ron: Stilletos, no need for explanation.

iFashion: What is a tough lesson you have learned from being a designer?
Charles and Ron: Always produce your own samples.

iFashion: Is there anything you would have done differently in your career so far?
Charles and Ron: From every mistake you grow and learn, and making certain mistakes have made us stronger, so the answer is no.

iFashion: What was your most exciting moment as a designer?
Charles and Ron: The most exciting moment for us was when we showed our couture collection on the Italian TV station Rai Uno.

iFashion: Where do you see your line in 5 years?
Charles and Ron: On the racks of some of the major department stores and boutiques around the world.

iFashion: What do you think is the most important fashion piece a woman should have and a man should have? Why?
Charles and Ron: Any man or woman should have at least one cotton white shirt and women should also have a classic black dress, short or long. These are staple pieces for any wardrobe that you will use many times.

iFashion: What item do you think is worth splurging on?
Charles and Ron: Any item that you really like and think will cause a sensation when you wear it!

iFashion: How long does it take you to create a collection?
Charles and Ron: Some collections take a couple of months to create and there were others that were created within a month.

iFashion: Do you create your own drawings?
Charles and Ron: Yes I (Ron) create all the drawings myself.

iFashion: If you weren't a designer what would you be?
Charles and Ron: We both can’t imagine doing anything else but I (Ron) love painting so maybe I could have been a full time artist.

iFashion: What is one piece I should have in my closet this fall and what color should it be?
Charles and Ron: A black velvet cape.

iFashion: In your opinion, what is the worst fashion faux pas a person can commit ?
Charles and Ron: Having your thong peek out from your jeans.

iFashion: What is your favorite article of clothing that you own ?
Charles and Ron: Ron: at the moment it’s a tan leather jacket by Gianfranco Ferre.

iFashion: What advice would you give to someone starting out in the fashion industry?
Charles and Ron: Stay true to yourself and your style.