Ralph Lauren, at 84, continues to be a master of grand gestures. For his spring 2025 show, he transformed a 19-acre horse farm in Bridgehampton, New York, into a captivating fashion spectacle. Guests, including celebrities like Usher, Jude Law, and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, were transported to a world of vintage cars, show horses jumping in a training ring, and an atmosphere that echoed the glamour of his 50th anniversary show in Central Park.
The collection itself was a celebration of Lauren’s signature All-American style, with pieces from his eponymous collection, Purple Label, and Polo gracing the runway. From classic American flag sweaters to elegant slip dresses, the clothes catered to every conceivable East End occasion. The collection featured a breezy, beachy vibe, with textures like crochet and calico finding their place alongside luxurious silks and leathers.
A multigenerational cast of models, including iconic figures like Christy Turlington and Naomi Campbell, brought the collection to life, showcasing the timeless appeal of Lauren’s designs. The show was a testament to his enduring legacy in the fashion world, a beacon of success in a constantly evolving industry.
Beyond the clothes, Lauren’s meticulous attention to detail extended to every aspect of the show. The vintage cars parked near the stables, meticulously customized down to the tiniest details, served as a metaphor for Lauren’s approach to fashion. He believes in crafting timeless classics and then adding a touch of whimsy, a unique blend of the familiar and the unexpected. This approach was evident in the mix of pieces on the runway: a humble white cotton tank paired with a jewel-fringed long column skirt, a mariner stripe shirt with a pinstripe ensemble, and the iconic tailcoat paired with holey jeans, showcasing Lauren’s ability to create surprising and stylish combinations.
The show culminated with Lauren taking a bow in a Team USA Closing Ceremony jacket, a nod to the Summer Games in Paris. The backdrop for this final flourish was a temporary Polo Bar, twice the size of its New York City counterpart, erected over a five-week period. This grand gesture was a fitting conclusion to an evening that exemplified the very essence of Ralph Lauren’s approach to fashion – an unwavering dedication to quality, an appreciation for timeless classics, and a flair for the grand gesture, all delivered with an unmistakably American touch.
