Never one to mince trend and style, Ralph Lauren instead manages time and time again to achieve a beautiful balance in fashion’s decidedly grey area. His fall show was no exception. While the overall vibe was still harking towards downtown cool–a continuation of his Great Depression-inspired spring collection–the Bohemian romance touches made this collection quintessential Ralph that his tony uptown clientele will embrace. Elements of this Bohemian gypsy girl–Steven Nicks singing Fleetwood Mac’s “Sisters of the Moon” aside–were achieved via the Edwardian tailoring and soft florals and accessories like beanies, beaded necklaces and fingerless lace gloves.
Inspired by a past campaign of his own (from 1993 to be exact), not to mention a Sheila Metzner photograph of Tyra Banks, this collection reinforced the brand’s ideals of producing great American sportswear. The rich floral prints on dresses were pretty, roughed up a bit when combined with chunky sweaters, fur toppers and a darling shearling. Puffed-up shoulders made the occasional cameo, most beautifully on a fitted herringbone jacket. No one treads the line between masculine and feminine better than Ralph, evident by not only the Shetland wool jackets paired with ruffled skirts, but the pinstripe moment (cropped jacket over vest and skinny pants) that was plenty posh.
Florals and ruffles and soft fabrics. Hmm I’m inspired.