A cultural journey has always been the inspiration of Ralph Lauren. From last season’s English country “Downton Abbey” retro mood, to this season Spring Summer 2013 collection, the designer approached such ethnic selections taken from a mix of Latino, Spanish and Parisian vibe, as Lauren said “I am forever inspired by faraway exotic places, I may never have traveled there, but in my imagination it is real.”
Among the Latino, South American references, such as ponchos and number of ethnic accessories like beaded cross-body fringe bags, leather fan clutches, classic satin peep toe and platform sandals, the ethnic fusion of Spanish elements are also featured in a rose on the hip, beaded boleros, festive fedoras, colorful silk scarves worn around the necks, which all matched beautifully with golden embroidered organza vests, embellished jodhpur pants or with ruffled and lacy skirts, which instantly reminiscing of the flamenco dancers.
The color chart predominated by the Spain-cum-Latin American flavor, starting from the classic black and white, to number of earthy tones such as amethyst, tomato red, teal, ivory and scarlet punctuated by lively shades of blue and purple. Details like fringed and embroidered handkerchiefs gave strength to the styling fancy presentation, while another brilliant accessory is shown through many berets evoking the Parisian spirit.
Throughout the runway, a touch of masculine appeared in court monochromatic looks, as the models transitioned into luxe matadors, opposing to the feminine appearance of the rounded and midi-length skirts. And while the brightly summer dresses completed the entire touch of femininity, proposing an explosion of frilly floral-themed dresses and multicolor blanket-style serapes that slowly built the momentum, some standouts of the evening dresses at the finale are featured in luxurious way reflected by a scarlet-colored georgette gown with boasting beading around the shoulders that created fabulous capelet effect, as well in a more sober mood featuring a black silk faille jacket with gold embroidery and evening skirt with tiers of organza that fell into a train.