Stunning. Worldly. Sensual. Those are just some of the words that come to mind upon seeing Ralph Lauren’s S/S27 outing at New York Fashion Week, though the woman—likely to be a young free spirit who turns out to be an heiress by title but not by identity—who could easily inhabit this lineup has the lexicon to add more.
She’s well-read, so she can tell you which art movement you’ve mistaken for another; well-traveled, clearly, with a favorite restaurant table in a city she doesn’t live in. And now, thanks to the American designer, her clothes speak for her: she’s a cultured, irreverent romantic with an appreciation for the finer things…including herself.
Old-World Glamour Lives On at Ralph Lauren S/S27
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At 86, Lauren remains fascinated by the trappings of aristocracy. His entire universe has been built with enough imagination to convince generations that they, too, could ride horses through Colorado, spend summers in the Hamptons, or get dressed for dinner somewhere requiring an antique silver candelabra. S/S27 gives this fantasy a lady who could believably have done all three and come back with better stories.
Her wardrobe has the grandeur to match. The collection moves easily between impeccable suits and floor-length dresses, paired with the occasional feathered coat that practically prompts its wearer to say, “Why yes, it belonged to my grandmother!” Still, her greatest accessory is her awareness of her own appeal. Lauren lets necklines plunge and leaves backs boldly open, as his definition of elegance is refinement and desire combined.
Color Makes the Collection Even Richer
Interestingly, Lauren has an expressive relationship with color this season. The show opens with the crispness of navy and white before richer hues begin appearing across the runway, including aquamarines, deep reds, and pinks touched by green. Added together, the shades create a painterly effect.
Old-World Elegance Doesn’t Need the Old Rules
Look closely and you’ll see details that imply inheritance, as though the pieces are already rich with history. Then, take a step back and see how they’re actually being worn. It’s still current. What Ralph Lauren gets right is that sophistication can break a few rules about propriety. And thank goodness for that! We can keep the good clothes without the repressed values.
Photos: RALPH LAUREN (via Instagram)
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