Very Ralph: A Reflection on the new Ralph Lauren documentary that captures The American Dream
What distinguishes fashion from style? It is easy to use the two words interchangeably; to acknowledge them in the same light. By definition, fashion is “a popular trend.” As a college student, I would argue that my demographic is the most tuned in to fashion trends… following them, purchasing them, and setting them. Style, however, is not as easily defined. Yes, you can look up the definition in the dictionary to receive a textbook answer, but contrary to “fashion”, style is not understood through mere words. The best way to truly understand style is through example. Who better serves as an example of style than Ralph Lauren.In November 2019, HBO released Very Ralph, a documentary sharing the story of fashion icon, Ralph Lauren, and the masterful brand he has created through his impeccable sense of style. Ralph Lauren shares his main inspirations and how he has harnessed them to turn what originated as a menswear collection of ties into a lifestyle brand that captures the essence of the American dream. From New York City penthouse apartments to Colorado cabins, luxurious parties to competitive sporting events, and strong family life to gangster street life, Very Ralph explores all walks of American culture through a Ralph Lauren lens. Lauren’s ability to reach out to everyone, while remaining true to his own story has led the brand to its success. Very Ralph offers exclusive interviews and personal accounts with Ralph Lauren, himself, as well as those closest to him, to take you through his success.The Ralph Lauren aesthetic is a unique and personal one; it is impossible for another brand to replicate it with eminence. The trademark polo logo represents timeless style.
Very Ralph proves the authenticity of this aesthetic by exploring how Ralph Lauren has weaved his own values throughout his brand. He stresses the importance of his family life and the meaningfulness it holds in his career. Numerous ads depict dreamy imagery of happy family life; the driving inspiration being, of course, Lauren’s own family. These portraits represent a figure of our imagination, a dream that we, as Americans, long for. Ralph Lauren allows us to achieve this dream. His clothing holds a story behind it so that while wearing it or seeing it worn by another individual, there is a clear vision that is automatically understood. The documentary shows clips of runway shows and advertisements of models carrying out the Ralph Lauren aesthetic, however, it also uses candid clips and pictures of Lauren’s own life.
The consistency between the brand’s visuals and Lauren’s own is undeniable. While watching the documentary, it is almost impossible to differentiate photographs used in ads from Lauren’s own photographs of himself and his family. The lack of contrast between the two demonstrates a level of realness and wearability that is yet another demonstration of the brand’s authenticity. When you purchase a Ralph Lauren item, you are purchasing a story. And when you wear the Polo logo, you represent all that the brand stands for. Each story differs from item to item. The classic Ralph Lauren oxford button down represents an effortless preppy look, while a gown would represent status and elegance. A Ralph Lauren suede fringe jacket paired with a pair of cowboy boots delivers the imagery of a brisk country day spent at a barn, where as a long trench coat possibly means you are walking the streets of New York City.
Without saying anything, your clothing tells a story, and no matter the item, it is always one of sophistication. Expressed through such distinct style, each article worn contributes in a different way to the narrative.The documentary also educates its viewers on how the brand managed to take necessary progressive action within the fashion industry while remaining true to its timeless style. Ralph Lauren was one of the first names in fashion to use African American models in powerful ad campaigns and runway shows. Being such a leader in the industry, other brands began to follow, demonstrating how Lauren paved the way to create change. Because he was such a well respected name, Lauren’s implementation of black models emphasized that African Americans were just as much a part of the American dream as any other American, an idea, that at the time, needed to be acknowledged. Combining all the elements that make Ralph Lauren’s brand so impactful, Very Ralph is a documentary bound to uncover inspiration, ignite passion, and unite the American people. It is a perfect reminder to embrace all elements of American culture. The brand behind the clothing caters to everyone, and there is a story awaiting anyone willing to wear it with confidence. Very Ralph is a testament to the beautiful world Ralph Lauren has created and continues to live. It is a must watch.
“Your story is not about trends or fleeting moments, but about values and things that last.” –Audrey Hepburn
★ Kitty Bogdan