The art of surprising mix and timeless elegance in the Ralph Lauren f/w 23 collection
Ralph Lauren f/w 23 collection was unveiled through a lookbook and showroom appointments, avoiding a traditional catwalk show. Despite this, Ralph Lauren’s ability to create a mood and offer a surprising mix of styles was showcased masterfully. Tailoring was undoubtedly prominent in the collection, with pinstriped suits, a signature look of the brand. Although many autumn shows featured this element, none made a greater statement than Ralph Lauren. However, the designer proved once again that he is a master at exploring less conventional territories. He paired a classically cut tweed jacket with fringed and ripped leather trousers, adding a western belt with silver and turquoise detailing to a classic single-breasted blazer and pleated trousers. He also surprised with a puffer in an elegant glen plaid, as well as recreating the unmistakable look of pinstripes through the skilful use of beading on a refined black dinner jacket. This surprising and unconventional mix is an intrinsic characteristic of Ralph Lauren’s personal style, as demonstrated over the years through his iconic fashion shows. The designer has always masterfully embraced the unexpected, such as in his 50th anniversary show in Central Park in 2018, when he wore faded blue jeans and metal-tipped cowboy boots to enhance a refined dinner jacket. In addition, Ralph Lauren incorporated the patina effect into his creations, giving his evening gowns an extraordinary vintage aura. On the shoulders of a black velvet jacket embellished with crystals and on the strapless bodice of a purple flocked denim dress, deliberately created signs of wear can be seen, creating an unexpected and fascinating look. The Ralph Lauren f/w 23 collection presented a diverse range of garments, with fluttering silk dresses dyed in deep shades of red and green, paired with substantial cowboy belts that skilfully combined the daytime and nighttime parts of the collection. Among the most elegant and glamorous creations were the metallic sequin dresses and micro-folds, with a stretch jersey dress that had the same twisting detail at the waist as the custom dress Ralph Lauren created for Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai at the Oscars. The effect of the twisting at the waist also gave an understated and very elegant feel to this latest garment. Despite the lack of a traditional fashion show, Ralph Lauren’s collection once again demonstrated the designer’s ability to create unexpected combinations and timeless classics. His influence in American fashion remains undisputed, and his artistry in mixing styles and details is a hallmark that continues to astonish and captivate. Come and discover the best of the Ralph Lauren selection on Michele Franzese Moda.
