Ralph Lauren Resort 2016 Collection

Don’t call it resort. That was the primary message behind the chic collection Ralph Lauren presented during a Wednesday morning appointment. Lauren prefers the handle “pre-spring” because the clothes aren’t restricted to take away activities, but fit all of the sartorial needs of the urbane woman’s life. And, he noted, “the detail of how we make it keeps it going up and up, the details, the luxury.”

A serene chic underscored the lineup divided into several groups. The big news was denim. Long one of Ralph Lauren’s favorite materials, he determined to take it somewhere new, translating a lightweight, soft version from Japan into gowns and high-polish day looks. A controlled equestrian mood came through in a group of beige and camel suedes mixed with shades of purple. The reference was as subtle as a tone-on-tone scroll across a skirt and languid cape, or a thin rim of leather whipstitching at the waist of a sleek sheath.

Throughout, Lauren moved from pragmatic chic silk sarong shirtdresses for day and evening to more artful fare, including a fabulous white tiered T-shirt tunic over soft pants. The stunner had the grace of an unfettered gown. Oh for a sporty and daring bride!