Steve Barth
RALPH LAUREN RETURNS TO NEW YORK FASHION WEEK WITH MUCH-ANTICIPATED RUNWAY SHOW
Ralph Lauren, the iconic American designer, is making a highly anticipated return to New York Fashion Week after a four-year break from the city’s official catwalk season. The designer will stage a runway event on Friday, September 8, in a location that has yet to be disclosed. This decision is seen as a significant boost for New York Fashion Week, which has experienced a decline in prominent designers showing in the city in recent years. Designers like Marc Jacobs, Tommy Hilfiger, and Tom Ford have opted to show outside of New York or in foreign locations. Even Thom Browne, the president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), showed in Paris recently during the haute couture season.
Renaissance of the Ralph Lauren brand
Ralph Lauren’s decision to return to New York Fashion Week comes at a time of strong renaissance for the brand. In May, the company reported unexpectedly strong fourth-quarter earnings, leading to an 8% rise in Ralph Lauren shares in trading. The brand has forecasted an increase in revenue for fiscal year 2024, with analysts expecting a rise of 5.6% to $6.73 billion. This positive trajectory demonstrates the brand’s resurgence and sets the stage for a highly anticipated runway event.
Past runway shows and events
Ralph Lauren’s most recent show on the official New York Fashion Week schedule took place on September 7, 2019. Titled “Ralph’s Club,” the show recreated a Jazz Era club at 48 Wall Street. The designer himself greeted guests in a pristine white tuxedo, and models paraded before the bar while guests enjoyed a night of glamour and extravagance. This unforgettable event showcased Ralph Lauren’s ability to transport guests to another era and create truly immersive experiences.
Since then, Ralph Lauren has continued to host remarkable shows and events. In October 2022, the brand presented a gala show in a botanical garden in Los Angeles. This star-studded event was attended by celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Ben Affleck, Diane Keaton, and Laura Dern. The brand demonstrated its ability to create an enchanting atmosphere in a unique setting.
In March 2022, Ralph Lauren staged an off-calendar show in New York at the Museum of Modern Art. The show paid homage to the Jazz Age, showcasing the brand’s deep appreciation for art and culture. This event further solidified Ralph Lauren’s reputation as a visionary designer who pushes boundaries and creates extraordinary moments.
Return to Milan menswear season
In addition to returning to New York Fashion Week, Ralph Lauren also recently made a comeback to the Milan menswear season after a four-year absence. The brand presented a Purple Label collection entitled “Dolce Vita” inside the Ralph Lauren Palace. This return to the Milan fashion scene highlights Ralph Lauren’s continued global reach and influence.
In conclusion, Ralph Lauren’s decision to return to New York Fashion Week is a significant moment for the industry. It not only revitalizes the event but also affirms the brand’s resurgence and continued success. With a history of unforgettable shows and a knack for creating extraordinary experiences, Ralph Lauren’s runway event is sure to be one of the highlights of the season.
