MILAN (AP) – Lewis Hamilton mingled with Colman Domingo in the front row of Ralph Lauren's Milan Fashion Week show, where the showcased menswear collection featured a diverse blend of styles ranging from business-ready pinstripes to laid-back festival ensembles. This eagerly awaited showcase drew an A-list crowd, including stars such as Henry Golding from “Crazy Rich Asians,” Tom Hiddleston from the “Avengers” franchise, and American actor Scott Eastwood.
Despite a heatwave outside, fans gathered enthusiastically to catch a glimpse of the celebrities as they arrived. Thai actor Nichakoon Khajornborirak, known as Meen, and Korean actor Kim Woo-bin interacted with the eager crowd, pausing for brief waves as their photos were snapped. Domingo added a touch of humor to his entrance, revealing he had to make a quick return to his vehicle to retrieve a hand fan, deftly maneuvering in his high heels to avoid slipping.
The collection debuted by Ralph Lauren's luxury Purple label transitioned smoothly from daytime suits to more formal wear, incorporating tuxedo shirts and bow ties complemented by denim coats showing intentional wear. Accessories included berets, aviator glasses, and pocket watch chains, contributing to the overarching mix of styles. Domingo praised the collection for its nostalgic yet contemporary feel, suggesting it echoed a 1920s inspiration while blending old with new.
The more relaxed Polo collection presented vibrant madras plaids and layered knitwear suited for mountain festivals or evening beach gatherings, providing a stark contrast to the heat of Milan. Some items resembled looks straight out of the "Preppy Handbook," characterized by playful clashes of pink and green. Notably, even the iconic Polo Bear motif sported outfits in line with the runway’s themes.
Domingo praised the creative fusion of styles observed in the collection. He noted the intelligent intermingling of cravats and vests with workwear elements—typifying Ralph Lauren’s knack for integrating old-world charm with modern-day practicality. He likened the experience to traveling from Brooklyn to East Hampton, where one feels they blend seamlessly into their environments.
The collection marked a harmonious convergence of formal and casual looks, disregarding traditional dress codes. The event showcased an inclusive runway casting, reflecting diversity in age and race. Accessories played a vital role in the presentation; silk scarves increasingly appeared as colorful bandanas in more casual ensembles, while ties were creatively repurposed as belts or sewn into bags, highlighting a rising trend of upcycling. Footwear options were varied, from leather fisherman’s sandals and velvet slippers to espadrilles and rain-resistant duck boots. Bag choices included Ralph Lauren-branded tote bags and luxurious snakeskin options.
Scott Eastwood expressed admiration for the snakeskin bags, highlighting Ralph Lauren as a timeless brand. He noted his familial connection to Ralph Lauren, as his father, the acclaimed actor and director Clint Eastwood, has a long-standing relationship with the designer. Henry Golding shared similar sentiments, recalling the brand’s ongoing support throughout his career and recognizing the Purple label as his trusted choice for refined attire.
The Ralph Lauren Spring/Summer 2027 men's collection was presented in Milan on June 19, 2026, embodying the brand’s signature blend of elegance and accessibility while maintaining a commitment to inclusivity in fashion.
