Hollywood stars have been flocking to Ralph Lauren for their red carpet looks for decades, but for Ralph Lauren’s latest fashion show in the spring of 2023, the legendary designer turned to them. On October 13, the brand unveiled its latest collections with the World of Ralph Lauren Special Experience at the Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Garden in San Marino, California.
The company believed that the posh estate that was the home of real estate and railroad magnate Henry Huntington was the perfect location for its first show on the West Coast. Designed by architects Myron Hunt and Elmer Gray and completed in 1911, the handsome Beaux Arts Mansion is regarded as one of the finest Gilded Age residences in the country and features 130 acres of botanical gardens. “Huntington, with its rich history and natural beauty, is the perfect backdrop to share your West Coast-inspired vision of life,” says Ralph Lauren. “My Spring 2023 collections are dedicated to the spirit of enjoying the outdoors, celebrating California’s natural beauty, its effortless elegance and energy, and the sense of optimism and joy that has always inspired me.”
Celebrities including newlywed Jennifer Lopez, who recently wore three Ralph Lauren dresses to her wedding, as well as Ben Affleck, Jessica Chastain, Diane Keaton, John Legend, Sylvester Stallone, Mindy Kaling, Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis, were welcomed at the wooden house bar. topped with large compositions of callas. After guests enjoyed a selection of signature cocktails, including the Ridgway Margarita and Polo Bar’s RL Royale, the evening moved to the museum’s elegant terrace, where the public enjoyed a parade that included the Collection, Purple Label, Double RL, Polo Ralph Lauren and children’s clothing lines.
The al fresco candlelit dinner overlooking the three-acre Rose Garden was perfectly designed in the brand’s signature sophisticated style with blue and white stripes, brass hurricanes, leather napkin holders and fine china and glass, all from Ralph Lauren Home. Romantic flower arrangements in the garden added grace to the tables. Guests dined on an à la carte menu of Mr. Lauren’s favorites from New York’s Polo Bar, including Ralph salad, Polo Bar burger and grilled branzinos.
From comfy pillows and throw pillows on dining chairs crafted from Ralph Lauren Home fabrics with floral prints and batik, to the laid-back California cool music that served as the soundtrack for the evening, guests experienced a cozy ambience, thought out to the smallest detail. The brand captures the natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle of Southern California in both the collections and the ambience of the evening, recreating the designer’s favorite blend of elegance and casualness.
