Ralph Lauren’s Timeless Appeal

With preppy styles taking over the spring collections from high end designers to high street brands alike, there's a renewed enthusiasm for classics like oxford shirts, cable knits, Breton stripes and tennis sweaters. So much so, that the OG purveyor of prep, Ralph Lauren, just jumped to 4th place in Vogue's Business Index only behind Louis Vuitton, Dior and Gucci (!) (That article is a fun little industry read if you're interested!) The article explains RL's rise: "Ralph Lauren underscores the pendulum swing from luxury to premium labels, as cash-strapped consumers purchase and engage with brands they believe offer more bang for their buck." Even more so, when the styles are timeless and can be enjoyed for years to come.

For many of you reading, what the fashion industry deems "preppy" is what you and I simply call clothes. Whether you're looking to update some well-loved favorites or working on building a classic wardrobe you love, I've rounded up my favorite RL styles (both old and new!) as we all dream of a Ralph Lauren spring full of stripes, faded florals, and weekends spent by the water.

(A bonus: I've found many RL pieces on sale this weekend!)

• I love RL's flag sweaters and have several for every season. The cotton cable knit one I'm wearing above is so fun - layer it over an oxford now, or throw on over your swimsuit later!
• Speaking of oxfords, this one is worth buying in every color (pastels on sale here, and the perfect stripe here!) The collar is perfectly poppable and the slim fit plus lack of a chest pocket make it ideal for layering. (I also love how it looks tucked into high waisted jeans with the cuffs flicked up at the wrist.) I recommend buying a size or two up from you normal size for the perfect relaxed look. (I have them in size 4.)
• Ralph Lauren's dresses deserve way more hype than they get, especially their georgette styles. I saw this red floral number in store in Boston yesterday and immediately ordered it. The mannequin was styled with a cable knit sweater tied at the shoulder and it's just the thing for summer picnic season. (And both pieces are currently on sale through 1/31!)
• Bright trousers are a preppy staple, and these slicker yellow wide-leg pants are a fun, yet wearable statement. Pair with a Breton tee and cropped trench coat.
• This denim button up shirt is a staple. Wear it with faded chino shorts or under a sweater or blazer year-round. You can't go wrong. (And it rarely goes on sale!)
• I have several RL shirtdresses and they're such an easy way to look polished during the spring and summer months. Whether you pair with white sneakers or lux sandals, it's a piece you'll reach for again and again.
• The cream canvas on this duffle might not be practical but preppies don't like things looking too new anyways. (Beware of anyone carrying a pristine boat and tote. Ha.) The navy version will hide scuffs from your adventures if that's what you prefer.
• This denim halter dress reminds me of RL ads from the 90s, not on sale but moving fast so I'd buy it now and thank me later!
• This blue and white wrap cardigan is a splurge, but I bought one a few years ago and always feel so chic in it.
• Every woman needs a navy blazer in their wardrobe, whether it's a polished, double breasted style or a casual denim version. (Also love this one but it's not by Ralph!)
• This iconic trench coat has alllllll the right details. (Epaulets! Leather belt buckles!) I just got this one and it's 2/3 the price and fabulous - just a little longer which pairs especially well with midi skirts. (I wore it over this outfit for the Sarah Flint event in Boston yesterday.)
• Floral cotton blouses with a little gathering are so Ralph. This one is on major sale and would look great with these olive trousers.
• The tie waist detail on this striped shirtdress is super flattering. Pair with espadrilles and white sunnies!
• This leather tote is a lux weekend bag that works year-round.
• This striped cashmere rollneck sweater is my platonic ideal of a sweater - pair with white linen pants this summer and with high-waisted trousers come fall.

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