Ralph Lauren is back in Milan — showing how to dress two generations at once

Ralph Lauren showcased its timeless vision of American luxury on the first day of Milan Men’s Fashion Week, blending heritage tailoring with younger, sportier styles in its spring/summer 2027 show.

The collection opened with soft neutral and indigo two-piece sets from the high-end Purple Label line, mixing sharp tailoring with more relaxed designs. It was followed by an explosion of colourful pieces from Polo Ralph Lauren, reworking classic American codes through patchwork, textured fabrics and decorative detailing.

The timing is good for the brand. Ralph Lauren, which dressed Team USA for this year’s Winter Olympics, has delivered buoyant results and reported strong demand in China even as the broader luxury sector struggles to emerge from a slowdown.

“My approach has always been cinematic, creating visual stories, and aspirational worlds. Each a tribute to the personality of the man who lives to push creativity, competition, and expressions of personal style to the limit,” said founder Ralph Lauren, who was not present at the show.

Held inside the brand’s palazzo in central Milan, the show ran in an intimate, residential-style setting. Guests included Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton, Crazy Rich Asians actor Henry Golding and Colombian singer Maluma. “The one that really stood out was that navy blue tuxedo… oh my god, it was phenomenal,” said an enthusiastic Golding.

For the city it marks the brand’s second return to the runway calendar this year after years of absence. Milan Men’s Fashion Week runs through Tuesday with a thinner-than-usual line-up including Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and Giorgio Armani. Gucci, Fendi and Emporio Armani shifted to co-ed shows, while Zegna staged its latest show in Los Angeles this month.