Despite what the pieces may suggest, Ralph Lauren isn’t going west any time soon. The iconic fashion label headed up by one of the industry’s most enigmatic leaders has debuted a stunning collection of pieces for Spring 2023, taking inspiration from the wide vast deserts of Southern California. This time around, Ralph Lauren is leaning-in to its pioneering style, harking back to the Wild West aesthetic that the area was originally known for. The best part? It all seems to work.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens in San Marino, California played host to Ralph Lauren’s special fashion experience. Kicking off with an expansive runway show that showcased the ever-growing world of Ralph Lauren, the immersive showcase also saw an elegant seated dinner bring guests together in a uniquely wholesome manner. During the runway experience, the world of Ralph Lauren was on display, the presentation featured more than 100 models from multiple generations and families.
On-stage, new iterations of Ralph Lauren’s signature silhouettes shone brightly, from the luxury and craftsmanship of Collection and Purple Label, mixed with the rugged attitude of Double RL. We were also treated to the youthful and irreverent spirit of Polo Ralph Lauren and charming Childrenswear, with the long-awaited RL Handbag Collection revealed during the experience.
According to the brand, Ralph Lauren’s Purple Label and Collection were inspired by the dramatic coastlines of Southern California during golden hour, most evident through the use of colourways that mimicked the region’s iconic dunes and sand. These were paired with ream, and sunset-inspired metallics that transform classic silhouettes.
We saw sharp menswear tailoring, saddle shoes, linen suits and equestrian details, along with showstopping cutout gowns rendered in scuba that were also embellished with transparent beads that caught the golden light, but that was not all. We were also shown cashmere turtlenecks layered beneath tailored blazers, and classic pleated details imbued with an eclectic sensibility found in California’s iconic artist communities.
During the Double RL runway, we saw a curated mix of vintage-inspired details and tailored silhouettes. The Double RL rugged spirit was reborn in rough-hewn leather, beautifully aged cowboy boots. These were layered with jewellery, romantic skirts and bias slip dresses, while the label also showcase a stunning series of three-piece suits and Western-style embroidery.
The youthful spirit of Ralph Lauren’s classic styles was reimagined through cable knits, striped oxfords, cricket sweaters, rugby shirts, adventurous beanies and knit bucket hats, statement socks as well as neon hiking boots and a rainbow of bold yet tech-inspired outerwear, available in bold colours like pink and green. Reimagined sporting styles popped when paired with more subdued chino trousers. Cowboy boots add a kick when layered against cross-stitch embroidered children’s dresses. Vintage quilts and calico prints, as seen in a little girl’s pinafore silhouette, embody the essence of childhood. The intimate experience was also made available worldwide through a live stream on Ralph Lauren’s global social media platforms and online.