When you think of quintessential American style, one name always comes to mind: Ralph Lauren.
Since 1967, this visionary designer has been weaving the fabric of the American dream into every garment, transforming fashion into a tangible expression of aspiration and success.
Ralph Lauren’s journey from a small tie maker to a global fashion powerhouse is not just a story of style, but a testament to the enduring appeal of the American spirit.
In this article, we’ll unravel the threads of Ralph Lauren’s most iconic designs for men.
These aren’t mere clothes; they’re cultural touchstones that have shaped how we perceive masculinity, success, and style in America and beyond.
From the sun-soaked Hamptons to the bustling streets of Manhattan, Ralph Lauren’s creations have become the uniform of the aspirational, the successful, and those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Whether you’re a longtime devotee of the brand or curious about elevating your style, this journey through Ralph Lauren’s most celebrated designs promises to be as enlightening as it is inspiring.
Double-Breasted Suit
Among Ralph Lauren’s myriad contributions to menswear, the Double-Breasted Suit stands as a paragon of sartorial excellence.
This garment epitomises Lauren’s ability to take a classic silhouette and infuse it with a distinctly American sensibility, creating a piece that is at once timeless and contemporary.
Heritage and Innovation
The double-breasted suit, with roots in naval uniforms, has long been associated with power and sophistication.
Ralph Lauren’s interpretation, first introduced in the 1980s, paid homage to this rich heritage while modernising the silhouette for a new generation of style-conscious men.
Lauren’s version maintained the suit’s commanding presence but softened its rigid formality.
Signature Touches
Nowadays, Ralph Lauren’s Double-Breasted Suit is distinguished by several key features:
- Peak Lapels – Wide, sweeping lapels that elongate the torso
- Six-Button Configuration – Typically with two to close, balancing tradition and modernity
- Ticket Pocket – A small additional pocket above the right hip pocket, adding a touch of old-world charm
- Surgeon’s Cuffs – Functional buttonholes on the sleeves, a mark of superior tailoring
- High Armholes – Allowing for a greater range of movement without compromising the suit’s lines
- Rich Navy Hue – A deep, saturated navy that’s versatile yet distinctive – this is the most popular colour
Evolution Across Decades
1980s – The Power Suit Era
– Cut: Strong shoulders, full chest, and a nipped waist
– Fabric: Heavy wool gabardine for structure and drape
– Notable Feature: Contrasting brass buttons, echoing nautical themes
1990s – Relaxed Refinement
– Cut: Slightly softer shoulders, roomier chest for a more relaxed fit
– Fabric: Introduction of wool-silk blends for subtle sheen
– Innovation: The “Polo” cut, a uniquely American take on English tailoring
2000s – Slim Modernity
– Cut: Trimmer silhouette with higher armholes and shorter jacket length
– Fabric: Super 120s and 150s wools for luxurious hand-feel
– Key Update: Narrower lapels and a higher button stance for a contemporary look
2010s and beyond – Bespoke Luxury
– Cut: Offering multiple fits from slim to classic, catering to diverse body types
– Fabric: Eco-conscious wool blends and innovative performance fabrics
– Customisation: Increased focus on made-to-measure and bespoke options
Cultural Impact
Ralph Lauren’s Double-Breasted Suit became a symbol of American success in the 1980s and 1990s, frequently seen on Wall Street and in Hollywood productions.
It represented a uniquely American take on European tailoring traditions, embodying confidence and sophistication.
The suit has been worn by presidents, CEOs, and celebrities, cementing its status as a power garment.
Its influence extended beyond the boardroom, inspiring a generation of men to embrace classic tailoring in their everyday lives.
Enduring Legacy
Despite changing fashion trends, the Double-Breasted Suit remains a cornerstone of Ralph Lauren’s menswear collections.
Its enduring popularity is a testament to Lauren’s skill in creating designs that transcend fleeting trends.
In recent years, as men’s fashion has seen a resurgence of interest in tailoring, Ralph Lauren’s double-breasted suit has found new admirers.
Young professionals are rediscovering the Double-Breasted suit’s ability to convey authority and elegance in an age of increasingly casual dress codes.
The suit continues to evolve, with recent iterations incorporating sustainable materials and performance features, ensuring its relevance for a new generation of consumers.
A Masterpiece of American Design
Ralph Lauren’s Double-Breasted Suit stands as a masterpiece of American design and exemplifies Lauren’s genius for refining classic menswear.
More than just a garment, it’s a statement of intent – a declaration that American fashion can stand toe-to-toe with the best of European tailoring traditions.
In crafting this iconic suit, Ralph Lauren didn’t just design clothing but designed confidence, success, and the American dream, rendered in fine wool and expert tailoring.
It remains a testament to the power of timeless style and the enduring appeal of true craftsmanship in fashion.
Styling the Double-Breasted Suit
Business Ocassions
Pair with a white shirt, a repp stripe tie, and black cap-toe oxfords. Add a white pocket square for a touch of sophisticated flair.
Creative Industries
Wear with a light blue chambray shirt, no tie, and brown suede loafers. Consider a patterned pocket square for a pop of personality.
Evening Events
Match with a formal white shirt with French cuffs, a black bow tie, and patent leather shoes. For added panache, incorporate art Deco-inspired cufflinks.
Chino Pants – Preppy Style Cornerstone
In the pantheon of Ralph Lauren’s iconic creations, the chino pants stand as a testament to the brand’s mastery of casual refinement.
These versatile trousers have become synonymous with the effortless elegance that defines American preppy style, seamlessly bridging the gap between formal and casual wear.
A Military Heritage Reimagined
The chino’s journey from military uniform to civilian wardrobe staple is a quintessentially American tale.
Originally developed for British and American armed forces in the mid-19th century, these sturdy cotton twill trousers were prized for their durability and comfort in warm climates.
Ralph Lauren, with his keen eye for recontextualising classic Americana, saw the potential in these utilitarian pants.
He recognised that with the right cut, fabric, and styling, chinos could embody the relaxed sophistication of East Coast prep schools and Ivy League campuses.
Lauren’s interpretation of the chino elevated it from its humble origins. By using premium cotton twills, perfecting the fit, and offering them in a palette that ranged from classic khaki to vibrant hues, he transformed chinos into a symbol of casual luxury.
The Evolution of an Icon
Over the decades, Ralph Lauren’s chinos have undergone subtle yet significant evolutions, always staying ahead of fashion trends while maintaining their classic appeal.
In the 1980s, when the preppy look reached its zenith, Ralph Lauren’s chinos were cut with a higher waist and a fuller leg, often cuffed to showcase penny loafers or boat shoes.
As fashion moved towards slimmer silhouettes in the 2000s, the brand adapted, offering more tailored cuts that appealed to a new generation of style-conscious men.
Today, Ralph Lauren offers an array of fits, from the classic-fit chino that echoes the original design to slim and straight-leg options that cater to modern tastes.
The brand has also experimented with fabric blends, introducing stretch for comfort and performance features for the active gentleman.
Chino’s Enduring Legacy
Ralph Lauren’s chinos are more than just a pair of pants; they’re a cultural icon that embodies the American ideal of understated luxury.
They represent the democratisation of style, proving that true elegance lies not in ostentation, but in the quality of materials, the precision of cut, and the confidence of the wearer.
From the hallowed halls of prep schools to the boardrooms of Wall Street, from casual Fridays to weekend retreats, Ralph Lauren’s chinos have become an indispensable part of the modern man’s wardrobe.
They are a blank canvas for personal style, as is the case at home with a graphic tee and sneakers as they are with a blazer and Oxford shoes.
In crafting the perfect chino, Ralph Lauren hasn’t just created a garment but defined an entire approach to casual dressing that values comfort without sacrificing style, and respects tradition while embracing modernity.
The chino, in Ralph Lauren’s hands, is not just a staple—it’s a statement and a declaration that true style transcends trends, that luxury can be found in simple garments, and that the most enduring fashion is that which makes the wearer feel himself.
Styling Chinos by Occasion
Casual Events
Pair relaxed-fit chinos in a classic khaki with a soft-washed Polo shirt and leather boat shoes.
Roll the cuffs slightly for a laid-back weekend look that’s perfect for a coastal getaway or a casual lunch.
Business Casual Events
Opt for slim-fit chinos in a darker shade like navy or olive. Combine with a crisp Oxford shirt, a textured blazer, and polished brogues.
This ensemble strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and approachability in a modern office setting.
Smart Casual Events
Choose tailored chinos in a rich colour like burgundy or forest green. Pair with a fine-gauge cashmere sweater, a contrasting pocket square, and suede loafers.
Polo Bear Sweater – Whimsical Luxury
In the vast tapestry of Ralph Lauren’s designs, few pieces capture the imagination quite like the Polo Bear Sweater.
Launched in 1991, the Polo Bear sweater encapsulates the brand’s ability to blend playful Americana with high-end fashion, creating a cult item that resonates with everyone from hip-hop artists to Wall Street executives.
Birth of an Icon
The Polo Bear’s origins are as charming as the bear itself.
The story goes that Ralph Lauren’s employees gifted him a Steiff teddy bear dressed in miniature Ralph Lauren clothing for his birthday.
Captivated by this whimsical representation of his brand, Lauren decided to incorporate the bear into his designs.
What started as a limited run of neckties soon evolved into a full-fledged mascot for the brand.
The Polo Bear made its sweater debut in 1991, instantly becoming a collector’s item.
This unexpected fusion of childlike charm and adult sophistication struck a chord with consumers, challenging preconceptions about what luxury fashion could be.
A Bear for Every Occasion
Over the years, the Polo Bear has taken on many personas, each reflecting a different facet of the Ralph Lauren lifestyle.
From the preppy bear in a blazer and chinos to the sporty bear in ski gear, each iteration tells a story and appeals to a different aspect of the brand’s diverse customer base.
Some of the most iconic Polo Bear designs include:
The Preppy Bear – Dressed in a navy blazer, khaki chinos, and repp tie, embodying classic East Coast style.
The Sportsman Bear – Clad in hunting gear, appealing to the rugged, outdoorsy Ralph Lauren aesthetic.
The Tuxedo Bear – In full black-tie regalia, representing Lauren’s mastery of formal wear.
The Polo Player Bear – Dressed for a match, celebrating the sport that gave the brand its name.
Each bear is meticulously detailed, from the tiny clothes to the accessories, making these sweaters miniature works of art.
Cultural Impact
The Polo Bear Sweater transcended its origins to become a cultural phenomenon.
In the 1990s, it found unexpected popularity in hip-hop circles, with artists like Raekwon and Kanye West sporting the bear.
This adoption by the hip-hop community added a layer of street credibility to what was originally conceived as a preppy status symbol.
Simultaneously, the sweater’s quirky charm made it a favourite among fashion insiders and celebrities, proving its versatility as both a high-fashion statement and a comfortable, casual piece.
Collector’s Dream
The limited nature of many Polo Bear releases has turned these sweaters into highly sought-after collectables.
Vintage Polo Bear sweaters from the ’90s can command high prices in the resale market, with some rare designs becoming genuine investment pieces.
This collectibility factor adds another dimension to the Polo Bear’s appeal.
Owners aren’t just wearing a luxury item; they’re sporting a piece of fashion history, often with a story behind each specific bear design.
A Testament to Ralph Lauren’s Vision
The Polo Bear Sweater stands as a testament to Ralph Lauren’s unique vision.
It embodies the brand’s ability to take something quintessentially American – in this case, the teddy bear – and elevate it to the realm of high fashion.
The sweater manages to be simultaneously nostalgic and forward-thinking, luxurious and approachable, serious fashion and playful fun.
In creating the Polo Bear, Ralph Lauren showed that true luxury isn’t always about minimalism or seriousness.
Sometimes, it’s about embracing joy, nostalgia, and a touch of humour.
The Polo Bear Sweater reminds us that fashion, at its best, should make us smile as well as make us look good.
As the Polo Bear continues to appear in new collections, it remains a beloved icon of the brand, bridging generations and styles.
It’s a wearable piece of Ralph Lauren’s legacy – a bear-sized reminder of the brand’s ability to surprise, delight, and redefine American luxury.
Styling the Polo Bear
Casual Occasions
Pair a Polo Bear sweater featuring the preppy bear with distressed jeans and white sneakers.
This juxtaposition of high-end and casual creates a relaxed yet fashion-forward weekend look.
Smart Casual Events
Layer a v-neck Polo Bear sweater over a collared shirt, combined with chinos and loafers.
The playful bear adds a touch of personality to an otherwise classic ensemble, perfect for creative workplaces or social events.
As a Statement Garment
Make the Polo Bear the centrepiece of your outfit by pairing a bold, colourful bear design with simple, dark trousers and minimal accessories.
This approach lets the sweater’s unique design shine in more formal settings where a touch of whimsy is welcome.
Polo Western Collection – Romanticising American Heritage
In 1978, Ralph Lauren unveiled a collection that would redefine American fashion and cement his status as a visionary designer.
The Western Collection, with its romanticised vision of the American frontier, marked a bold departure from East Coast prep and introduced the world to a new facet of Lauren’s interpretation of the American dream.
Reimagining the Wild West
The Western Collection was more than just clothing; it was Ralph Lauren’s love letter to the mythos of the American West.
Drawing inspiration from the rugged landscapes of Colorado and the silver screen cowboys of Hollywood’s golden age, Lauren crafted a collection that transformed the utilitarian garb of ranchers and cowboys into high fashion.
Key garments included:
The Fringed Suede Jacket – A luxurious take on traditional Native American and cowboy attire.
Navajo-inspired Knitwear – Sweaters and ponchos featuring intricate patterns and rich earth tones.
Distressed Denim – Jeans and jackets that looked like they had stories to tell.
Concho Belts – Ornate silver belts that add a touch of glamour to every outfit.
Cowboy Boots – Elevated from practical footwear to fashion statement.
Cultural Impact and Controversy
The Western Collection’s impact on fashion was immediate and lasting.
It popularised a romanticised “Santa Fe” style that influenced interior design as well as fashion.
However, the collection also sparked discussions about cultural appropriation, particularly regarding its use of Native American motifs.
Lauren’s approach was one of homage rather than replication, but it raised important questions about the fashion industry’s responsibility when drawing inspiration from cultural heritage.
Over time, the brand has evolved its approach, striving for a balance between celebration and respect.
Evolution of the Western Aesthetic
While the initial Western Collection was a defined moment in fashion history, its influence has continued to permeate Ralph Lauren’s designs over the decades.
1980s – RRL (Double RL) Launch
– Introduction of the RRL line, focused on rugged, vintage-inspired Western wear
– Iconic garments: Hand-tooled leather jackets with intricate Native American-inspired beadwork
– Standout piece: The “Concho Belt” – a silver-adorned leather belt that became a status symbol
1990s – Purple Label Western
– Integration of Western elements into the high-end Purple Label
– Key garments: Tailored suede blazers with Western yokes, silk neckerchiefs with cattle brand prints
– Notable piece: The “Rhinestone Cowboy” tuxedo jacket, blending formal wear with Western flair
2000s – Western Sport
– Fusion of Western style with performance wear
– Signature garments: Technical fabric shirts with Western snap buttons, moisture-wicking polo shirts with rodeo-inspired prints
– Highlight: The “Tech Chaps” – a modern take on traditional chaps using water-resistant materials
2010s and beyond – Eco-Western
– Focus on sustainable materials and production methods in Western-inspired clothing
– Key garments: Organic cotton denim with vintage washes, recycled polyester fleece jackets with Navajo patterns
– Standout piece: The “Upcycled Blanket Coat” – each one unique, made from vintage Navajo blankets
Beyond Fashion – Polo Western Lifestyle
The Western Collection wasn’t just about clothing; it was about selling a lifestyle.
Ralph Lauren’s interpretation of Western-style influenced home décor, with many embracing rustic elements in their interiors.
The Ralph Lauren Home line would later capitalise on this, offering everything from distressed leather furniture to Navajo-print blankets.
This expansion into lifestyle products demonstrated Lauren’s understanding that fashion is just one part of a larger aesthetic vision.
The Western Collection allowed customers to immerse themselves fully in the romanticised world of the American West.
A Lasting Legacy
Decades after its introduction, the influence of the Western Collection can still be felt in fashion.
Its success proved that American designers could draw inspiration from their cultural heritage to create globally appealing luxury fashion.
It challenged the notion that high fashion could only come from European ateliers and paved the way for a distinctly American luxury aesthetic.
The Western Collection also showcased Ralph Lauren’s talent for storytelling through fashion.
Each piece seemed to have a narrative, inviting the wearer to step into a rich, imagined history.
This ability to infuse clothing with meaning and narrative has become a hallmark of the Ralph Lauren brand.
Today, pieces from the original Western Collection are highly prized by collectors and vintage shops.
They stand as artefacts of a pivotal moment in American fashion history when Ralph Lauren dared to reimagine the cowboy as a style icon and forever changed the landscape of luxury fashion.
The Western Collection is a testament to Ralph Lauren’s visionary design and impact on how we perceive and celebrate American style.
Styling Western-Inspired Pieces
Casual
Pair a denim western shirt with chinos and suede desert boots. Add a braided leather belt for a subtle nod to cowboy style without going full frontier.
Smart Casual
Layer a finely knit, Navajo-inspired sweater over a crisp white shirt. Combine with dark jeans and Chelsea boots for a sophisticated take on Western wear.
Statement Look
For those bold enough, a fringed suede jacket can be the centrepiece of a striking ensemble. Balance it with simple, dark trousers and a plain shirt to let the jacket be the focal point.
Safari Jacket – Adventure Meets Sophistication
In 1984, Ralph Lauren introduced the Safari Jacket, a garment that would go on to redefine casual luxury and capture the imagination of adventurers and style enthusiasts alike.
The Safari Jacket exemplifies Lauren’s knack for transforming utilitarian wear into high fashion, blending functionality with refined elegance.
Origins and Inspiration
The safari jacket’s roots trace back to the late 19th century, worn by European explorers and colonials in Africa.
Ralph Lauren, inspired by the romantic notions of safari adventures and the timeless appeal of colonial-era clothing, reimagined this practical garment for a modern, style-conscious audience.
Lauren’s interpretation maintained key functional elements while elevating the jacket with luxurious materials and impeccable tailoring.
The result was a piece that evoked the spirit of adventure while being equally at home in urban settings.
Key Design Features
Ralph Lauren’s Safari Jacket is characterised by several distinctive elements:
- Belted Waist: A self-belt cinches the waist, creating a flattering silhouette.
- Multiple Pockets: Four spacious front pockets, often with button-down flaps, offer both functionality and visual interest.
- Epaulettes: Shoulder straps add a military-inspired touch.
- Spread Collar: A wide, structured collar frames the face and adds formality.
- Cotton Drill Fabric: Durable yet comfortable, often in khaki or olive tones.
Evolution Through the Decades
1980s – The Original Safari Collection
– Materials: Primarily cotton drill and linen
– Color Palette: Earth tones – khaki, olive, and sand
– Signature Piece: The “Hemingway” Safari Jacket, a four-pocket design in khaki cotton drill
1990s – Luxury Safari
– Materials: Introduction of fine suedes and silk-cotton blends
– Color Palette: Expanded to include ivory, tobacco, and deep green
– Standout Item: The “Serengeti” Jacket, crafted from buttery-soft suede with horn buttons
2000s – Technical Safari
– Materials: Incorporation of performance fabrics with moisture-wicking properties
– Color Palette: Introduction of urban greys and blues alongside traditional earth tones
– Key Innovation: The “City Safari” Jacket, a lightweight, water-resistant version for urban explorers
2010s and Beyond – Sustainable Safari
– Materials: Focus on organic cotton, recycled polyester, and eco-friendly leather alternatives
– Color Palette: Muted, natural dyes including sage green, clay, and ecru
– Notable Creation: The “Eco-Expedition” Jacket, made from recycled materials with a carbon-neutral production process
Cultural Impact
The Ralph Lauren Safari Jacket became more than just a garment; it represented a lifestyle.
It appealed to those who yearned for adventure, even if their explorations were limited to urban jungles.
The jacket found its way into film and television, often worn by characters embodying sophistication and worldliness.
In the fashion world, it sparked a trend of “safari chic” that influenced not just clothing, but also interior design and travel aesthetics.
The Safari Jacket became a symbol of the well-traveled, cultured individual – someone equally at ease in the wilds of Africa or the cocktail parties of New York.
Legacy and Continued Relevance
Decades after its introduction, the Safari Jacket remains a staple in Ralph Lauren collections.
Its enduring popularity is a testament to its versatility and timeless appeal.
The jacket has proven to be a canvas for Ralph Lauren’s evolving vision, adapting to new materials, technologies, and social concerns while maintaining its core identity.
Today, the Safari Jacket stands as an emblem of Ralph Lauren’s ability to blend aspirational fantasy with wearable fashion.
It continues to appeal to new generations of consumers, drawn to its unique combination of functionality, style, and the promise of adventure it represents.
In essence, the Safari Jacket encapsulates Ralph Lauren’s genius: taking a utilitarian garment and infusing it with luxury and romance, creating a piece that transcends its origins to become a true fashion icon.
Styling the Safari Jacket
Casual
Pair a classic khaki safari jacket with a simple white T-shirt, well-worn jeans, and desert boots. Add a braided leather belt and aviator sunglasses for a rugged, adventurous look.
Urban
Layer a slim-fit, darker-toned safari jacket over a fine-gauge turtleneck. Combine with tailored trousers and suede loafers for a refined city ensemble.
Creative
Opt for a safari jacket in an unexpected colour like deep olive or navy. Wear it over a crisp Oxford shirt with chinos and brogues, perfect for creative offices or art gallery openings.
Polo Shirt – From Sports Fields to Style Icon
The story of Ralph Lauren’s ascent to fashion royalty begins with a simple yet revolutionary idea: the Polo shirt.
Launched in 1972, this unassuming garment would become the cornerstone of the Ralph Lauren empire and a symbol of casual luxury worldwide.
Origins and Impact
The Polo shirt wasn’t just a new product; it was a reimagining of sportswear for everyday life.
Lauren took inspiration from traditional tennis and polo attire, refining it with superior craftsmanship and adding that now-famous embroidered polo player.
This small detail transformed a functional garment into a status symbol, bridging the gap between athletic wear and fashion.
Polo Shirt Evolution
Over five decades, the Polo shirt has remained relevant by adapting to changing tastes while maintaining its core identity.
From the oversized fits of the 80s to the slim cuts of the 2000s, it has evolved without losing its essence.
Nowadays, the Polo shirt is available in a rainbow of colours and various fits, ensuring there’s a Polo for every man and every occasion.
Styling Polo Shirts by Occasion
Casual
Pair a bold-coloured Polo with dark-wash jeans and white sneakers for a relaxed yet put-together look.
Business Casual
Combine a crisp white Polo with tailored chinos and leather loafers for a polished office-appropriate ensemble.
Smart Casual
Layer a navy Polo under a light blazer, paired with khaki trousers and brown brogues for events requiring a step up from business casual.
Cable-Knit Sweater – Nautical Heritage
When Ralph Lauren introduced his take on the cable-knit sweater, he didn’t just create a garment; he wove a story of maritime tradition and Ivy League prestige into every stitch.
This iconic piece, deeply rooted in function and style, has become a staple of the Ralph Lauren aesthetic and a must-have for the discerning gentleman.
Origins and Impact
The cable-knit sweater’s history stretches back to the Aran Islands off Ireland’s coast, where it was worn by fishermen for warmth and protection against harsh sea elements.
Ralph Lauren recognised the rugged charm and rich heritage of this design, elevating it from workwear to a symbol of refined casual luxury.
This transformation showcased Lauren’s genius for reimagining classic, functional designs into icons of American luxury.
Cable-Knit Sweater Evolution
Over the years, Ralph Lauren has continually refined the cable-knit sweater, experimenting with different materials, weights, and patterns.
From chunky wool versions reminiscent of traditional fisherman sweaters to sleek cashmere iterations perfect for layering, the cable knit has adapted to changing fashion needs.
Today, Ralph Lauren offers cable-knit sweaters in various styles, from classic crew necks to modern v-necks, ensuring there’s a perfect option for every wardrobe and occasion.
Styling Cable-Knit Sweaters by Occasion
Casual
Throw a chunky cable knit over a plain t-shirt, paired with well-fitted jeans and ankle boots for a sophisticated weekend look.
Business Casual
Layer a fine-knit cable sweater over a light blue Oxford shirt, combined with wool trousers and leather loafers for a refined office style.
Smart Casual
Wear a v-neck cable-knit over a collared shirt with tailored chinos and suede desert boots for upscale dinner outings or creative office environments.
Oxford Shirt – Timeless Design
The Oxford shirt stands as a testament to Ralph Lauren’s ability to elevate classic American style into a symbol of understated luxury.
This wardrobe essential has become a cornerstone of the Ralph Lauren collection, embodying the brand’s commitment to timeless design and quality craftsmanship.
Origins and Impact
Originating in 19th-century Scotland, the Oxford shirt was adopted by Ivy League students in the 1950s, becoming a staple of preppy style.
Ralph Lauren recognised its potential, refining the Oxford shirt with superior materials and impeccable tailoring, transforming it into a versatile luxury item.
The addition of the iconic polo player embroidery further elevated the shirt, making it a subtle yet recognisable status symbol.
Oxford Shirt Evolution
Ralph Lauren has continually updated the Oxford shirt to meet contemporary needs while maintaining its classic appeal.
From introducing a range of fits – from slim to classic – to experimenting with different collar styles, the brand has ensured the Oxford remains relevant.
Today, Ralph Lauren offers Oxford shirts in a variety of colours and patterns, from classic white and blue to bolder stripes and checks, catering to diverse style preferences.
Styling Oxford Shirts by Occasion
Casual
Wear an untucked Oxford shirt with rolled-up sleeves, paired with chino shorts and boat shoes for a relaxed weekend look.
Business Casual
Tuck a light blue Oxford into well-fitted khakis, and add a leather belt and penny loafers for a polished office ensemble.
Smart Casual
Layer a white Oxford under a navy blazer, and combine it with dark jeans and brown brogues for a sophisticated dinner or event outfit.
Polo Blazer – Sartorial Elegance
The blazer is a quintessential element of Ralph Lauren’s vision, embodying the perfect balance between casual sophistication and formal refinement.
This versatile garment has become a cornerstone of the Ralph Lauren aesthetic, representing the brand’s commitment to timeless style and impeccable tailoring.
Origins and Impact
The blazer’s roots can be traced back to 19th century Britain, where it was worn by rowing club members and naval officers.
Ralph Lauren reimagined this classic piece, infusing it with a distinctly American flair and elevating it to a symbol of refined casual wear.
By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern sensibilities, Lauren transformed the blazer into an essential element of the aspirational American wardrobe.
Blazer Evolution
Over the decades, Ralph Lauren has continually refined the blazer, experimenting with various fabrics, cuts, and styling details.
From the classic navy wool blazer with brass buttons to more relaxed linen versions for warmer climates, the brand has adapted this staple to suit diverse needs and occasions.
Today, Ralph Lauren offers blazers in an array of styles, from structured and formal to soft and unlined, ensuring there’s a perfect option for every gentleman’s taste and lifestyle.
Styling Blazers by Occasion
Casual
Pair an unstructured linen blazer with a crisp white t-shirt, well-fitted chinos, and suede loafers for a refined weekend ensemble.
Business Casual
Combine a navy wool blazer with a light blue Oxford shirt, grey flannel trousers, and brown brogues for a classic office look.
Smart Casual
Layer a tweed blazer over a fine-gauge rollneck jumper, and add dark denim jeans and Chelsea boots for a sophisticated evening out.
Rugby Shirt – Sporty Elegance
In a masterstroke of sartorial alchemy, Ralph Lauren transformed the humble rugby shirt from athletic gear into a symbol of casual luxury.
This bold reimagining blurred the lines between sportswear and high fashion, challenging conventional notions of American style.
From Pitch to Catwalk
Born on the rugged rugby fields of 19th-century Britain, this sturdy garment was designed to withstand the sport’s physical demands.
Lauren’s visionary eye saw beyond its utilitarian origins, recognising its potential to embody a spirit of relaxed sophistication.
By refining its construction and experimenting with colours and patterns, he elevated the rugby shirt to an icon of preppy chic.
A Canvas of Reinvention
Ralph Lauren’s rugby shirts have undergone a fascinating evolution, morphing from faithful reproductions to daring reinterpretations.
Early designs honoured traditional rugby aesthetics, while later iterations played with unconventional colour combinations and luxurious materials.
Today’s Ralph Lauren rugby shirts range from heritage-inspired heavyweight cotton to lightweight, office-appropriate knits, each telling a unique story of sport and style.
Styling Rugby Shirts by Occasion
Casual
Layer a vintage-inspired rugby shirt over a plain white tee, and pair it with worn-in jeans and classic trainers for a relaxed weekend look.
Business Casual
Opt for a solid-coloured, fine-knit rugby shirt tucked into chinos, and add loafers and a leather belt for a smart office-ready ensemble.
Smart Casual
Wear a slim-fit rugby shirt under a navy blazer, combined with tailored trousers and suede brogues for upscale dining or creative professional settings.
Conclusion
Ralph Lauren’s journey from a small tie maker to a global fashion powerhouse is a testament to the enduring appeal of American style.
Through our exploration of his most iconic designs, we’ve witnessed how Lauren has consistently redefined casual luxury, blending heritage with innovation.
From the ubiquitous Polo Shirt to the whimsical Polo Bear Sweater, each piece tells a story of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the American psyche.
These garments are not merely clothes; they are cultural artefacts that have shaped our perception of success, sophistication, and style.
Style Mastery Beyond Ralph Lauren Brand
Knowing Ralph Lauren, the brand, and its iconic designs 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 and cuts 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’s lines offer 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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