Ralph Lauren. The name doesn't really need an introduction because it speaks perfectly for itself. If you are someone who hasn't heard of the fashion emporium which is Ralph Lauren, who must have been literally hiding under a rock for the past 30 years! Synonymous with a classic English heritage style, pin stripe suits and the world renowned 'Polo' collection, Ralph Lauren has come a long way from the dirty streets of the Bronx. In fact, Ralph Lauren (as in the actual designer himself) is one of the richest men in fashion, with a fortune well exceeding the billionaire mark. And all of this from classic polo t-shirts with a horse.
Originally born Ralph Lifshitz in 1939, Lauren changed his name further down the line to make it more glamorous and less Jewish-sounding; he came from a family of Jewish immigrants. It wasn't until 1966 that his career really took off as he decided to venture into menswear, designing practical, stylish ties with a wider fit compared to the skinny style favoured by Americans at the time. He christened the collection 'Polo' and the rest they say is history. Now he has set up a specialist cancer hospital in New York named after him, built up a mega brand consisting of mens, womens, children, home, perfumes etc and was declared Chevalier de la Legion d'honneur by the French President in 2010.
I particularly want to talk about Ralph Lauren womenswear. Every season there's always one show that I wait for, and unfortunately its comes right at the end of New York Fashion Week. It is in fact Ralph Lauren. There is always glamour, a romantic storyline, beautiful clothes on the most slender and movie perfect models and the designs are absolutely exquisite. Ralph always dons the androgynous mens suit in a flattering wool type material, complete with a bowler hat and neck tie. It's all very English but done in such a stylish way you forget that you're watching a fashion show which could be mistaken for a timeless film noir. Lauren has always said the great Hollywood actresses of old have been a huge inspiration for him and that certainly comes across in his collections.
Diamond encrusted gowns in soft baby pinks, halter neck red siren dresses, fluffy feathered capes and body con skirts with tasteful prints are all very Lauren. Timeless with an elegant twist to make it a little more modern for the 21st century women. Its no wonder he counts Cate Blanchett, Julia Roberts and Madonna among his legion of fans. Ralph knows how to make a woman look beautiful, on and off the red carpet. He creates a world which comes across even in his stores. Ever visited the amazing Ralph Lauren store on Old Bond Street? It is as though you are walking into an English country manner house, with roaring fire places, old oak tables, wide wooden staircases and a cosy feel which makes you feel completely relaxed. It's a real treat and well worth a visit, even if you can't afford anything - like myself!
Take a look through some of his most stunning ad campaigns and embrace the fantasy world of Ralph Lauren...
No comments:
Post a Comment