I know, I know, autumn is just around the corner, everyone is starting to break out fall pieces, but you didn’t think I would end this summer series without having a look at a collection of one of my favourite designers, did you? Plus, our weather around here will not let me properly think in terms of fall fashion just yet. However, if you look closely, there are many items in this Ralph Lauren Spring/Summer 2011 collection that would seemingly blend into your fall wardrobe: the plaid shirt in the top image, the subtly tailored linen jackets and linen caps, the halterneck dress and the little white lace dress that would look fantastic paired with a leather jacket, high Victorian collar lacy blouses to go under woolen blazers, the heirloom earrings and suede chokers studded with natural stones, the kind I can’t get enough of wearing with a white shirt.
Before I move on to the rest of the collection, I’m lingering on a little longer on this first look. There was a time when I wouldn’t have been caught dead in a silver piece of clothing, but I would wear this country-meets-city outfit without the trace of an afterthought and happily trade the little black dress for it for a cocktail party. It’s in Ralph Lauren’s maverick ability to refine a look, a style, and make it timeless.
The West has always been one of Ralph’s major sources of inspiration. “I was inspired by the palette of the West – the colors of the desert, the sunsets, turquoise jewelry, rainbow serapes, the texture of broken-in chaps, beat-up cowboy hats and pickups, rodeo buckles, concho belts, fringed jackets, faded jeans, and cowboy dusters. I loved the freedom of the West and the eclectic, free style it inspired.” It’s a theme he beautifully reinterpreted in this collection, advancing it to a modern, urban look. It’s a collection that feels romantic and free spirited, just like the Ralph Lauren woman is, just like summer makes you feel. I’m going to hold on to that feeling for as long as I can.
PS: And speaking of the end of summer, Mary Jo Matsumoto is having a 40% Flash Sale until tomorrow, Friday, August 30th, included. She doesn’t have sales too often, so this is your chance to get something lovely from yet another one of my favourite designers. She ships internationally and if your country is not listed, just email Mary Jo the details. Happy shopping!
photos: Vogue.com | Ralph Lauren Spring/Summer 2011 collection
I remember this collection so well— I thought the mix of western and glitz was so interesting! And seeing as I won’t be getting a summer let up, I appreciate seeing this post now
That first maxi dress is a dream! x
OMG ! Ralph Lauren is to die for ! I love every single piece <3
and by the way … your blog is amazing
Peace and Love !
check out my page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Peace-Love-Accessories/183326201838843
Ralph Lauren never stops to surprise me. He is also one of my favorite designers! His collections are always so feminine!
I love love love this post! Every outfit is a spin on RL style in some of my favorite fabrications, and the layered textures and colors–beyond beautiful. Our summer is sort of just starting–it’s gotten really hot and will probably stay like this for another 2 or 3 weeks and then go into a cooler summer for a month after that, so I can see wearing all of this right now.
p.s. thank you for the sweet mention of our Flash Sale!
xo Mary Jo
I will take that plaid shirt and linen cap, thank you very much. Where do I pay?
oh my goodness, that top outfit is so beautiful. i love the mix of causal and chic. how does that look as amazing as it does? one thing i love about RL, as you point out, is that his sources of inspiration never wavers. and they are always so interchangeable with each other. the looks change over the years but they feel at once current and timeless and always so RL.
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