Small Quebec Shop Designs New Robes for Canada’s Supreme Court

A small shop in Saguenay, Quebec, has made a significant mark by creating new ceremonial robes for the Supreme Court of Canada, which recently celebrated its 150th anniversary. CEO Romane LeGallou of Les Rabat-Joies was quick to respond when she heard the court was seeking a wardrobe update. After expressing interest and being selected to fulfill the project, the team embarked on a journey that would challenge their skills and creativity.

LeGallou recalls the whirlwind experience, saying, “It was such pressure for the team. It happened four weeks before I gave birth for the first time!” Her laughter reflects the blend of excitement and personal significance during this monumental time for both her family and her business.

Embracing Tradition with a Modern Twist

Creating attire for Canada’s highest court involves adhering to strict guidelines regarding color and style. Robes are traditionally black, and tabs, the white strips worn at the collar, are a requirement. At Les Rabat-Joies, however, innovation is key. The company offers a range of personalized options while respecting these traditions. Clients can select from numerous tab designs, including lace, crocheted collars, and even rainbow-stitched options, allowing for a unique touch.

The robes can also feature vibrant linings, showcasing prints from St. Bernards to zebra stripes. In French, “rabat-joie” translates to “kill-joy,” but the shop’s name reflects a playful spirit, suggesting that legal attire can be both professional and fun. Assistant Director Stéphanie Gobeil emphasized their commitment to providing clients with distinctive court wardrobes that stand out from conventional offerings.

The team dedicated the spring and summer to crafting customized robes for the nine justices, ensuring that each piece met their precise specifications. Technical lead Myriam Herrera, who began her career in dressmaking at the age of 14 in Nicaragua, brought her expertise to the project after joining the company in 2024. Alongside her, the shop employs two other workers from Nicaragua and Colombia on temporary permits, highlighting its diverse workforce.

LeGallou and Herrera traveled to Ottawa last year for fittings and consultations with the justices, personally measuring them and discussing design visions. They sourced high-quality black silk from Korea and incorporated the Cormier emblem, representing the Supreme Court of Canada, into the fabric. Each robe required around 40 hours of meticulous work, embodying the team’s motto: “Perfection, nothing less.”

A Historic Unveiling and Future Challenges

The finished robes were delivered to Ottawa in September 2023, just in time for their unveiling during the opening of the Supreme Court season on October 6, 2023. Chief Justice Richard Wagner praised the new designs, stating they preserve the dignity of the judicial role while embodying a modern and accessible Canadian identity.

LeGallou believes this modernization signals a broader acceptance of change within the Canadian judiciary, encouraging other courts to consider similar updates. The attention garnered from this project has led to an increase in business for Les Rabat-Joies, with orders pouring in from various cities and provinces.

Despite the success, challenges loom on the horizon. Changes in immigration policy have created uncertainty for the two temporary workers, affecting their ability to remain in Quebec. Dressmaking is no longer classified as a “rare” occupation, complicating pathways to permanent residency. LeGallou has been actively engaging with authorities to find a resolution that allows her employees to stay, expressing concern not just for her business, but for the people and relationships she has built.

“I was sure I could keep them,” she said, reflecting on her commitment to her team. As demand for their unique legal attire continues to grow, LeGallou remains focused on maintaining the heart of her business in Saguenay, aiming to ship creations across Canada while fostering a supportive environment for her employees. The culmination of this project has not only transformed the visual identity of Canada’s Supreme Court but has also strengthened the bonds within this small but mighty team.