When the conversation turns to American style pioneers, Mr Ralph Lauren inevitably stands at the helm. At 86, the designer remains a living testament to the power of vision. It’s one that has not only shaped how Americans dress, but how the world imagines a life well-lived.
Over the past 58 years, the designer’s empire has blossomed from a modest line of ties into a multi-billion-dollar lifestyle powerhouse synonymous with polished ease: Crisp shirting, tailored trousers and formalwear that define generations. Today, the brand continues its cultural resurgence thanks to a new wave of nostalgic enthusiasm on the internet—the TikTok generation rebranding its refined collegiate codes as Old Money aesthetic.
Related article: What Makes Work Worth Dressing Up For?
Closer to home, Ralph Lauren celebrates ten years at Shaw Centre. The milestone was commemorated with an exclusive, by-invitation-only screening of Very Ralph (2019), the acclaimed documentary by award-winning American film producer Susan Lacy that offers an intimate portrait of the man behind the icon. “What I do is about living,” Lauren once reflected. “It’s about living the best life you can and enjoying the fullness of life around you—from what you wear, to the way you live, to the way you love.”
Related article: Victoria Beckham's Latest Show Was Inspired By Her Netflix Doc And Harper's Relationship With Clothes
Hosted inside a private mansion fashioned after Mr Lauren’s own home, the evening transported guests into his vision of refined Americana where fashion, interiors and storytelling coexist as one universe. Through candid interviews with family members, lifelong collaborators, and cultural luminaries, the film traces Lauren’s journey from the Bronx to becoming the architect of the world’s first complete lifestyle brand.
Related article: Exclusive: ITZY on Their Journey and Evolution as One of Today’s Hottest K-pop Acts
Naturally, the guest list reflected the brand’s star wattage and regional influence. Among those spotted: ELLE Singapore’s June 2024 cover star Ryujin; Chinese actors Miles Wei and Winwin; Thailand’s beloved Jimmy (Jitaraphol Potiwihok) and Sea (Tawinan Anukoolprasert); and Indonesian pop darling Tiara Andini. Homegrown celebrities like our September 2024 digital cover star Rebecca Lim, Jeanette Aw and Desmond Tan also showed up to lend their support.
All photos: Courtesy of Ralph Lauren