Ralph Lauren Purple Label – What is It and is It Worth the Price?

What is Ralph Lauren Purple Label?

Ralph Lauren Purple Label is the crown jewel in the Ralph Lauren empire, representing the most luxurious line of menswear within the entire corporation and the pinnacle of style, above lines like Polo Ralph Lauren, RRL (Double RL), and Lauren Ralph Lauren.

Ralph Lauren Purple Label was launched in 1994 as the apex in terms of quality, craftsmanship, and price, aimed at affluent consumers who seek high-quality craftsmanship and traditional, timeless, old-money styles.

Purple Label offers an extensive range of men’s attire and accessories, spanning from meticulously tailored suits and formal evening wear to refined casual clothing, shoes, and fragrances.

Purple Label is characterised by premium materials like the finest wools, kinds of cashmere, and exquisite types of leather sourced globally.

Most Purple Label pieces are crafted in Italy, with some limited editions manufactured in England, ensuring the highest standards of workmanship.

The brand’s dedication to quality is reflected in the line’s higher price points compared to other Ralph Lauren offerings.

Purple Label’s distribution is deliberately exclusive, available in select Ralph Lauren stores and prestigious retailers, adding to the line’s allure and prestige.

The aesthetic of Purple Label blends classic English tailoring traditions with American preppy cuts in a unique fashion style that appeals to successful gentlemen worldwide.

In recent years Ralph Lauren Purple Label has garnered a devoted following among celebrities and style icons such as Jay-Z and Tom Hiddleston, further cementing its status as a pinnacle of luxury menswear.

A Brief History of Ralph Lauren Purple Label

The inception of Purple Label in 1994 marked a significant milestone in Ralph Lauren’s illustrious career as a designer and brand architect.

Inspired by the esteemed traditions of Savile Row, Lauren introduced the Purple Label as a premium line focused on tailoring in response to what he perceived as a void in the luxury menswear market.

The aesthetic of Purple Label draws significant inspiration from Ralph Lauren’s work on the 1974 film adaptation of ‘The Great Gatsby’.

Lauren’s costume designs for the movie, which captured the opulence and elegance of the 1920s, laid the groundwork for what would become the Purple Label line.

This connection to cinematic fashion history adds depth to the brand’s identity, blending old-world glamour with contemporary luxury.

However, the choice of the name ‘Purple Label’ was deliberate and steeped in historical significance.

Throughout history, the colour purple has been associated with royalty, nobility, and luxury and Ralph Lauren’s choice made a clear statement about the line’s positioning and aspirations within luxury fashion.

Lauren’s vision for Purple Label was to offer sophisticated, impeccably crafted clothing that could withstand the test of time, both in terms of style and quality and the antidote to the prevailing ‘dress down’ trend of the mid-1990s.

It’s important to note that unlike some of Ralph Lauren’s other collections which offer both men’s and women’s clothing, Purple Label is dedicated to male customers as an exclusively menswear line.

The absence of a women’s Purple Label line underscores its position as Ralph Lauren’s ultimate expression of masculine luxury.

While the company does offer high-end women’s clothing through its Collection and RL50 lines, these are separate entities with their own distinct identities.

The exclusivity of Purple Label to menswear contributes to its unique appeal and allows for a depth of focus in design and craftsmanship that caters to the needs and desires of discerning male consumers.

As Purple Label evolved, it expanded beyond formal wear to a broader range of menswear and accessories however, despite this growth, the line has remained steadfast in its commitment to superior quality and timeless style.

Nowadays, Purple Label represents the zenith of Ralph Lauren’s vision for menswear, blending American style with European craftsmanship to create clothing for those who appreciate understated luxury and sartorial excellence.

Is Ralph Lauren an Old-Money Brand?

Ralph Lauren, as a brand, embodies the aesthetic and values associated with old money, despite not being a traditional old-money brand itself.

Founded in 1967 by Ralph Lifshitz (who later changed his name to Lauren), the brand’s recent origin contrasts with centuries-old European luxury houses.

However, Ralph Lauren has successfully crafted an image that resonates deeply with old-money sensibilities.

Inspired by the classic Ivy League style, English aristocracy, and the American upper class of the early 20th century, the Purple Label line exemplifies the old-money aesthetic.

The brand’s designs evoke images of elite country clubs, polo matches, and yacht clubs – all traditional bastions of old money.

Ralph Lauren’s marketing strategy has reinforced this image as advertisements feature settings and activities associated with generational wealth: sprawling estates, vintage cars, and equestrian sports.

This careful curation of image has led many to associate the brand with old-money traditions, despite its newer origins.

It’s worth noting that while Ralph Lauren may not be an old-money brand in the strictest sense, it has become a favoured brand among actual old-money families.

Its commitment to quality and timeless style aligns with the old-money preference for durable, classic pieces over fleeting trends.

In essence, Ralph Lauren’s Purple Label line can be considered an aspirational old-money brand, that offers the opportunity to buy into the old-money aesthetic and lifestyle, regardless of your background.

Purple Label Aesthetic

The design of Purple Label is rooted in Ralph Lauren’s vision of timeless American elegance, infused with European old-money sartorial traditions.

The aesthetic can be described as a refined blend of old-world luxury and modern sophistication, inspired by the Golden Age of Hollywood and the English aristocracy.

Purple Label suits aesthetic features a soft, natural shoulder, a departure from the structured silhouettes seen in American tailoring.

This softer construction, inspired by the Italian Alta Borghesia and Neapolitan tailoring traditions, showcases a relaxed, elegant drape that has become a hallmark of the Purple Label look.

The jackets inspired by 1930s tailoring, feature a lower buttoning point and wider lapels than contemporary fashion dictates.

This design choice creates a longer lapel line, enhancing the wearer’s perceived height and adding a touch of old-world elegance.

Another hallmark of Purple Label suits is the pleated back, a feature rarely found in modern off-the-rack suits.

The trousers come with pleats and a higher rise, echoing the classic 1930s aesthetic while providing a more comfortable fit.

These nuanced design elements, while subtle, contribute to the overall look and feel of Purple Label garments, setting them apart from both mainstream fashion and other luxury brands.

An interesting detail about Purple Label’s design process is the use of vintage garments from Ralph Lauren’s personal archive, dating back to the 1920s and 1930s.

Purple Label is also known for its innovative use of materials. For example, the line has pioneered the use of performance fabrics in high-end tailoring, such as suits made from wrinkle-resistant wool that maintain their shape even after long-haul flights.

This blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern technology exemplifies Purple Label’s forward-thinking approach to luxury menswear.

Colour plays a crucial role in Purple Label’s aesthetic. While the line offers a full spectrum of hues, it’s renowned for the use of rich, deep tones characteristic of the old money colour palette.

The brand’s navy is famously dark and saturated, achieved through a proprietary dyeing process that results in a colour depth rarely seen in other menswear lines.

Perhaps most importantly, Purple Label’s design philosophy emphasises versatility and longevity as each garment is part of a cohesive old-money wardrobe that can be mixed and matched over many years.

This approach reflects Ralph Lauren’s belief that true luxury lies not in constantly chasing trends, but in building a timeless personal style.

Purple Label Vs. Other Ralph Lauren Lines

Ralph Lauren Purple Label’s uniqueness comes from an obsessive focus on exclusive materials, superior craftsmanship, and a design that emphasises timeless elegance over fleeting trends.

Unlike the brand’s other lines, Purple Label garments are made in Italy, with some unique and limited edition pieces produced in England to ensure a high level of artisanal quality that sets Purple Label apart from the widely distributed Polo Ralph Lauren or RRL lines.

Purple Label uses proprietary fabrics such as cashmere from Yorkshire, England, known in the industry as the “Ralph Lauren finish” and developed for Purple Label garments to impart a luxurious hand-feel to Purple Label cashmere pieces.

Purple Label also stands out for its limited production runs. While exact numbers are closely guarded, it’s estimated that some Purple Label creations are produced in quantities as low as 50-100 units worldwide.

This exclusivity contrasts with the more ubiquitous Polo line, which produces thousands of units per style.

Why is Purple Label So Expensive?

Purple Label’s pricing reflects its position at the pinnacle of Ralph Lauren’s offerings.

Suits range from $4,000 to $8,000, depending on the fabric and construction.

Dress shirts start around $350 and can go up to $600 for more unique designs.

Knitwear, including the renowned cashmere sweaters, falls between $700 and $1,500.

Formal wear, such as tuxedos and dinner jackets, command prices upwards of $5,000, with some speciality creations reaching $10,000 or more.

Accessories like ties range from $200 to $400, while shoes can cost between $800 and $1,500.

It’s worth noting that these prices are for full retail, and significant discounts can be found during sales or at outlet stores.

The high price point of Ralph Lauren’s Purple Label is a result of several factors, each contributing to its position as a luxury brand.

Firstly, the use of premium materials drives up costs as the cashmere used in Purple Label knitwear is sourced from inner Mongolia and undergoes a meticulous selection process, with the finest, longest fibres being chosen.

Secondly, the manufacturing process for Purple Label garments is labour-intensive in suits and formal wear, involving a significant amount of hand work.

For example, the canvas of a Purple Label suit is hand-stitched to the wool exterior, a process that can take several hours per garment but results in a superior fit and longevity.

The ‘Made in Italy’ factor also contributes to the cost as Italian craftsmanship is renowned worldwide, and the skilled artisans who work on Purple Label garments command high wages relative to those in other manufacturing centres.

Furthermore, the limited production runs of Purple Label items add to their exclusivity and, consequently, their price.

Unlike mass-produced clothing lines, Purple Label produces garments in small batches – sometimes as few as 50-100 pieces – and the low-volume, high-quality approach results in higher per-unit costs.

Lastly, as the pinnacle of Ralph Lauren’s offerings, Purple Label’s prices reflect the line’s ultra-luxury status, competing with Loro Piana, Brunello Cucinelli, Tom Ford, Kiton, Ermenegildo Zegna’s Couture, and Giorgio Armani’s Giorgio Armani line.

Is Purple Label Worth the Price?

The question of whether Purple Label is ‘worth it’ is subjective and depends on individual priorities and financial situations. However, there are several factors to consider when assessing its value proposition.

In terms of quality, Purple Label delivers as the materials used are among the finest available, and the construction quality is excellent.

A well-cared-for Purple Label garment can last for many years, offering better value over time compared to cheaper, more disposable fashion.

The design aesthetic of Purple Label also contributes to its long-term value. Rather than chasing trends, the line focuses on timeless styles that are less likely to look dated after a few seasons.

This approach aligns with the concept of building a lasting wardrobe, which can be more economical in the long run.

For those who appreciate craftsmanship, the level of detail in Purple Label garments can justify the price.

The hand-stitching, fine finishing, and attention to detail are apparent to the discerning eye and can provide a sense of satisfaction to the wearer.

However, it’s worth noting that at full retail price, Purple Label items are among the most expensive in their category.

Some may argue that diminishing returns come into play at this price point, where the incremental quality improvement may not be proportional to the price increase.

Is Purple Label High Quality?

Ralph Lauren Purple Label is renowned for exceptionally high-quality materials, sourced from some of the most prestigious mills and tanneries worldwide.

For suits and tailored garments, Purple Label uses fabrics from historic Italian mills such as Loro Piana and Vitale Barberis Canonico.

These mills produce the world’s finest wools, with micron counts below 15, resulting in incredibly soft and luxurious garments.

A notable fabric is the ‘Royal Mile’ worsted wool, exclusive to Purple Label, which is woven in Scotland and finished in England to exacting specifications.

In terms of casual wear, Purple Label utilises premium Sea Island cotton, prized for an exceptionally long staple length which results in garments of unparalleled softness and durability.

For knitwear, the brand uses cashmere from the mountains of Mongolia and Inner Mongolia, where the harsh climate results in goats producing wool of extraordinary fineness and warmth.

Leather goods within the Purple Label line are crafted from full-grain leathers from renowned tanneries like Italy’s Conceria Walpier.

Made in Italy

Initially, most garments were manufactured in England, with suits produced at the renowned Chester Barrie factory in Crewe.

However, Ralph Lauren later shifted production to Italy, partnering with esteemed manufacturers like Saint Andrews, shifting the brand’s aesthetic by blending English tailoring traditions with Italian craftsmanship.

While the move to Italian production changed some aspects of the garments, such as creating a more relaxed silhouette, it maintained the commitment to superior quality that defines Purple Label.

Nowadays, most Purple Label garments are ‘Made in Italy’, a key differentiator for Purple Label within the Ralph Lauren portfolio, leveraging the country’s centuries-old tradition of fine tailoring and craftsmanship.

Purple Label’s production is centred in several regions of Italy, each chosen for specific expertise. Suits and tailored garments are manufactured in and around Naples, a city famous for soft-shouldered jackets and handwork.

Knitwear is produced in the Veneto region, known for a long history of fine gauge knitting but Purple Label’s handwork is different from some of its competitors.

While brands like Kiton pride themselves on the number of hand stitches per garment, Purple Label uses handwork where it adds visual value but uses machines to produce clean and consistent results that increase fit and durability.

Every Purple Label garment undergoes a final inspection by hand before it leaves the factory by checking the alignment of patterns, stitching consistency, and the garment drape.

It’s estimated that the final quality control can take up to an hour per garment for more complex pieces like suits.

Purple Label vs Similar Luxury Brands

When comparing Purple Label to other luxury menswear brands, it’s important to consider various aspects including quality, style, and pricing.

Ralph Lauren Purple Label combines the best of American style with European production standards and holds its own in terms of quality and craftsmanship.

Purple Label’s suits are mentioned in the same breath as brands like Kiton, Brioni, and Tom Ford.

While each brand has unique aesthetics and strengths, Purple Label’s combination of classic American style and Italian craftsmanship creates a unique proposition in the market.

Unlike other luxury brands that focus on tailoring, Purple Label offers a full old money wardrobe solution, from formal wear to casual attire, all produced to the same high-quality standards.

In the realm of casual luxury, Purple Label competes with brands like Brunello Cucinelli and Loro Piana.

While these brands may offer a more focused range, Purple Label’s breadth allows it to offer a cohesive look across all aspects of a man’s wardrobe.

Ultimately, Purple Label’s quality and craftsmanship place it firmly in the upper echelons of luxury menswear.

The line’s unique blend of American design aesthetic and Italian manufacturing expertise creates a product that stands out in a crowded luxury market.

In terms of quality, Purple Label holds its own against top-tier brands like Kiton and Brioni. All three use premium materials and employ skilled craftspeople.

However, there are subtle differences. Kiton, for instance, is known for an even higher degree of handwork, reflected in higher prices.

Stylistically, Purple Label offers a distinct aesthetic that blends American sportswear influences with European tailoring traditions.

This sets it apart from the more purely Italian style of Brioni or the sharp, modern look of Tom Ford.

Purple Label’s style is described as more versatile and wearable for a wider range of occasions.

Pricing-wise, Purple Label sits below Kiton but is comparable to Brioni and Tom Ford at full retail.

However, Purple Label tends to be more frequently discounted than these other brands, particularly at Ralph Lauren’s outlets.

One area where Purple Label excels is in its breadth of offering. While brands like Kiton and Brioni focus on tailoring, Purple Label offers a full lifestyle collection including casual wear, accessories, and even home goods, all at a consistent quality level.

Ultimately, while Purple Label may not be the absolute pinnacle in any single category, its combination of quality, style versatility, and relative value (when on sale) makes it a strong contender in the luxury menswear market.

Ralph Lauren Purple Label Iconic Creations

Several items have become synonymous with the Purple Label line over the years but the double-breasted navy suit, cut from the brand’s signature deep navy wool, is perhaps the most iconic.

With soft shoulders, a nipped waist, and precise proportions, the suit epitomises the Purple Label aesthetic.

Another standout piece is the Purple Label safari jacket inspired by colonial-era British officers’ uniforms and reimagined in luxurious fabrics like suede or fine cotton as a symbol of refined casual elegance.

In the realm of knitwear, the Purple Label cashmere cable-knit sweater has achieved near-legendary status.

Crafted from the finest Mongolian cashmere and featuring a complex cable pattern, the Purple Label cashmere cable-knit sweater competes with Loro Piana‘s creations for the pinnacle of luxury knitwear.

One lesser-known but equally iconic piece is the Purple Label alligator belt, hand-crafted from a single piece of alligator leather.

Purple Label Must-Haves

Ralph Lauren Purple Label caters to every aspect of a stylish gentleman’s wardrobe by offering a comprehensive range of menswear.

• Bespoke and made-to-measure suits in Super 150s to Super 200s wool and cashmere blends
• Ready-to-wear suits in Italian-woven fabrics (e.g., Loro Piana, Vitale Barberis Canonico), including their signature deep navy
• Formal dinner jackets in black and midnight blue barathea wool
• Tuxedos in silk jacquard and velvet (colours like burgundy, forest green)
• Made-to-measure dress shirts in fine Italian cottons
• Cable-knit and ribbed sweaters in Mongolian cashmere and Sea Island cotton
• Fine-gauge merino wool turtlenecks and polo shirts
• Tailored chinos in Egyptian cotton twill
• Selvedge denim jeans from Japanese mills (e.g., Kurabo, Kaihara)
• Calfskin leather bomber jackets and suede safari jackets
• Wool and cashmere overcoats (e.g., single-breasted, double-breasted, Chesterfield style)
• Oxford and Derby shoes in calfskin and cordovan leather
• Hand-lasted leather loafers (e.g., penny loafers, tassel loafers)
• Italian-made luxury sneakers in leather and suede
• Full-grain calfskin briefcases and weekend bags
• Alligator skin belts with sterling silver buckles
• Seven-fold silk neckties hand-rolled in Italy
• Hand-rolled silk pocket squares with hand-printed patterns
• Sterling silver and mother-of-pearl cufflinks
• Tweed shooting jackets with suede elbow patches
• Tailored plus-fours in Scottish wool
• Luxury swimwear in quick-dry fabrics
• Cashmere and silk blend loungewear and sleepwear
• Accessories including cashmere scarves and leather gloves
• Purple Label fragrances in sophisticated, masculine scents

The line’s crafted suits available in ready-to-wear and made-to-measure options, are a hallmark of the brand since its inception, allowing for a high degree of personalisation.

Purple Label’s formal offering includes tuxedos and dinner jackets in silk jacquards or velvet, ideal for making a statement at black-tie events while maintaining an air of timeless elegance.

In the realm of casualwear, Purple Label offers a refined take on everyday clothing via luxurious knitwear from the finest cashmere and merino wool, tailored chinos, and denim from selvedge Japanese fabrics.

Purple Label line also features a range of outerwear, from classic trench coats to sumptuous leather jackets.

Accessories form a significant part of the Purple Label collection, including handcrafted shoes made in collaboration with renowned English shoemakers, as well as leather goods such as briefcases, wallets, ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks.

It’s worth noting that Purple Label also ventures into more specialised areas of menswear with bespoke sporting attire, shooting jackets and plus-fours, catering to lovers of traditional British country-chic.

Fit and Sizing

Specifically tailored, Purple Label’s fit and sizing are different from other Ralph Lauren lines.

Given their European-inspired silhouettes, suits and jackets have a closer fit through the body and shorter length compared to the more traditional American cut found in the Polo line.

In terms of sizing, Purple Label uses Italian sizing for its suits and jackets, which can be confusing for customers accustomed to American sizes.

For instance, a US size 40R might correspond to a Purple Label size 50. This sizing system allows for more precise grading between sizes, catering to the exacting standards of Purple Label’s clientele.

Equally, Purple Label’s approach to trouser fit is unique as the brand maintains the classic fit with a slight taper, compared to many luxury brands that have embraced the slim trouser cut.

But, Purple Label’s approach to trouser fit ensures comfort and elegance, aligning with the brand’s ethos of timeless style over fleeting trends.

Conclusion

The Purple Label retail experience is exemplified by the Ralph Lauren Rhinelander Mansion on Madison Avenue in New York City.

This flagship store, housed in a historic Beaux-Arts building, offers an immersive environment that embodies the Ralph Lauren lifestyle. The Purple Label section within the mansion provides a curated selection of the line’s finest offerings.

A key aspect of the Purple Label in-store experience is the alteration service. Trained tailors are on hand to ensure a perfect fit for every garment.

This service is valuable for Purple Label suits and formal wear, where precise fit is crucial.

The alterations, combined with the opulent surroundings of stores like the Rhinelander Mansion, create a luxury shopping experience that goes beyond purchasing clothing.

For menswear enthusiasts, a visit to a Purple Label boutique, especially the Rhinelander Mansion, is considered a pilgrimage of sorts. It offers an opportunity to not just shop, but to immerse oneself in the world of Ralph Lauren’s highest expression of luxury menswear.”

Ralph Lauren Purple Label stands as a paragon of luxury menswear, seamlessly blending American design sensibilities with European craftsmanship.

Its position in the market is unique, offering a comprehensive wardrobe solution that spans from formal wear to casual attire, all produced to exacting standards.

While not a traditional old-money brand, Purple Label has captured the essence of old-money style, making it appealing to both established wealth and those aspiring to that aesthetic.

The brand’s commitment to quality materials, expert tailoring, and timeless design justifies its premium pricing for many consumers.

However, the true value of Purple Label lies in its sale offerings, where the combination of quality and reduced prices can represent exceptional value in the luxury market.

For the discerning consumer who appreciates fine craftsmanship and classic American style with a European twist, Ralph Lauren Purple Label offers a compelling proposition in the world of luxury menswear.

Ultimately, whether Purple Label is “worth it” depends on individual priorities and financial considerations.

What’s clear is that the brand has carved out a distinct niche in the luxury market, offering a level of quality and style that continues to resonate with a global clientele seeking the pinnacle of American luxury fashion.

Style Mastery Beyond Ralph Lauren Brand

Knowing Ralph Lauren, the brand, and its iconic lines, is just a small step towards dressing like a successful, confident man.

True sophistication lies in knowing precisely which garments, footwear, and accessories complement your body shape, seasonal colour, occasion, and lifestyle and here’s how:

Know Your Body Shape: Different Ralph Lauren lines flatter different physiques so discover your body shape now by taking The VOU’s body shape quiz for men.

Identify Your Best Colors: Ralph Lauren offers a wide colour palette, but not every hue will complement your natural colouring so find out your ideal colours with The VOU’s seasonal colour quiz for men.

Dress for the Occasion: Understanding how to adapt Ralph Lauren’s garments, and mix them with other brands in different settings is crucial. From casual weekends to formal events, each occasion requires a nuanced approach to styling.

Get Expert Styling Advice: To know which Ralph Lauren line, garments, and styles to wear, consider enlisting professional help.

We offer a comprehensive fashion style analysis for men, where our expert stylists will guide you in selecting and combining Ralph Lauren pieces for maximum impact, and create a wardrobe that communicates success and sophistication.

Remember, owning Ralph Lauren isn’t enough to showcase style and success.

It’s about choosing the right pieces for you and knowing how to wear them.

With these tools and expert guidance, you’ll not just wear the brand—you’ll master it, creating a wardrobe that truly reflects your taste and achievements.

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