Ralph Lauren is undeniably in the spotlight. Having recently been crowned women’s wear designer of the year at the 2025 Council of Fashion Designers of America awards, and with his ‘Ralph Lauren Christmas’ aesthetic dominating the past holiday season, the brand’s influence is clear. Even the U.S. Olympic team’s outfits for the Milan-Cortina Games, featuring a charming vintage Aspen vibe, stood out as some of the opening ceremony’s most notable looks.
Lauren’s unique cinematic interpretation of the world—characterized by its refined sophistication, luxurious settings, and unwavering belief in mythical aristocratic ideals—increasingly resonates as a source of comfort through clothing. It was therefore no surprise that for his Fall 2026 show, he delved even deeper into the expansive ‘Ralph universe’ (a realm as richly layered as the Marvel Cinematic Universe after nearly six decades).
The majestic bank hall of Lower Manhattan’s Clock Tower Building, with its grand marble Corinthian columns and ornate coffered ceiling, was meticulously transformed into a lavish woodland retreat. Imagine Balmoral Castle, but magically transported to TriBeCa. The floor was adorned with 36 large, beautifully aged Oriental rugs, while the walls were draped with hand-painted tapestries depicting windswept forests. Every bench and armchair was upholstered in classic tweed, intricate tapestry, vibrant tartan, or rich, crackled leather.
Among the attendees were stars like Anne Hathaway, fresh from ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2,’ Morgan Spector of ‘The Gilded Age,’ and Lana Del Rey. One might almost have expected a majestic stag to emerge from backstage and trot down the runway, such was the immersive atmosphere.
Instead, models showcased rugged knee-high riding boots reminiscent of Robin Hood’s attire, alongside exquisite, supple brown leather corsets. Tailored tapestry jackets, evoking Scarlett O’Hara’s resourceful curtain-dress, were paired with paisley ties and cravats. Rich, woody tweeds dominated, and jackets featured elegant peplums and subtly dramatic leg-o’-mutton sleeves.
A stunning royal blue velvet dress was accented with a studded leather circlet at the neck. Another look included a halter-neck gown with an attached chain-mail capelet and a leather horseshoe belt cinched at the hips. A hooded chain-mail tunic, adorned with sparkling crystals, completed a collection that felt like a fusion of Maid Marian’s forest escapades and Arthurian legend—perhaps Guinevere on a sophisticated outing at The Carlyle.
Lauren has always maintained a distinct position outside mainstream fashion, consistently adhering to his romanticized visions of American history and style, regardless of prevailing trends. While this approach can sometimes be seen as frustrating or out of step—indeed, many pieces echo past Ralph Lauren collections—it also represents a powerful statement of faith and even subtle subversion.
In an era where a ‘nouveau riche’ aesthetic, defined by ostentatious gilt and imitation glamour, often dominates, Mr. Lauren presents an alternative. He offers a vision where the mythical elegance of Camelot could seamlessly transition to Bedford (his country estate), imbued with all the timeless and promising implications that entail.