Avine Perucci

The Avine Perucci Couture Bridal Gown Line by St. Pucchi.  Rani established the St. Puchhi collection in the U.S. in 1985, and was the first to introduce Thai silk fabric and the use of color in bridal wear. ‘St. Pucchi offers the bride an alternative to traditional styling,’ says Rani. ‘The Avine Perucci collection aims to raise bridal fashion to the level of artistry- the effect hails back to the Renaissance era of romance.’ She describes the St. Pucchi bride as a ‘very confident woman who knows what she wants and does not allow trends to dictate her choices. And she is not afraid to express her femininity and allure.’

In her youth, Rani attended a boarding convent in Mussoorie, India where she was captain of the school and graduated in 1970 with honors. She then went on to study at the University of New Delhi and graduated in 1973. Rani’s 22 years of experience stems from her family-owned business in Bangkok, which is one of the largest lace manufacturing facilities in the country. At age 20, she moved on to start a retail tailoring business of her own in Bangkok. Gaining experience in ready-to-wear and evening gown design, Rani participated in Paris prêt-a-porter and Igedo, Dusseldorf.

As a result of hard work and visionary style sense, Rani made a name for herself as an innovator in the bridal industry. Considering her global background, it should come as no surprise that Rani speaks of herself as a ‘designer first, and then a businesswoman.’

Rani was first spotted for her talent in 1990 as a finalist in the category of Best Bridal Designer in Dallas and was also nominated three consecutive years as a Style Innovator at the Chicago Apparel Center’s Debi awards. After receiving the 1995 Debi Award for Best Bridal Designer, she was nominated again in the same category the following year.

When she is not traveling between her home in Bangkok, where Avine Perucci bridal gowns are produced, and her home in Los Angeles, Rani enjoys reading, music and the occasional trip to the theatre. ‘Staying on the ground for more than 2 weeks is a luxury I wish I could afford,’ she says. Between the numerous trunk shows, appearances, and trade shows she attends, Rani also makes at least 4 to 6 trips to Bangkok annually with sporadic visits to Hong Kong or Japan. Fueled by a compulsion for change, Rani is truly dedicated designer/business woman and a risk-taker. ‘I am constantly in pursuit of perfection,’ she says. ‘The key is to lead, not follow. The brides are the ultimate judges of my creations.’ And St. Pucchi’s consistent growth for over 15 years proves that St. Pucchi can take on the most difficult task faced by the bride on her wedding day, and make it not only rewarding, but worthy of a fairy tale.