Americana:

Ralph Lauren x Kentucky Derby

Ralph Lauren’s line for the Kentucky Derby fuses two American classics: an All-American designer and an All-American event joining forces to reach a new target market, a younger generation.
We live in a time when the youth are quick to dismiss tradition in fear of repeating the past or lacking originality, when in fact, tradition is what keeps us grounded. It is important to bring certain aspects of our past into the future and confidently transform them into our own story. Americana strives to restore the timelessness of Derby fashion for this younger generation by combining Ralph Lauren’s aesthetic with relevant fashion mega-trends for the Spring and Summer of 2025.
Themes such as quiet luxury and nostalgia were used to incorporate sartorial elegance and refined sophistication into the collection. Each aspect of this collection was intentional to keep traditions alive while remaining true to Ralph Lauren’s refined style. As a nod to Churchill Downs, each look is named after a previous Kentucky Derby winning racehorse. Americana focuses on the garment construction to stay true to Ralph Lauren’s signature tailoring, while playful details and accessories such as roses and fascinators keep this collection in alignment with traditional derby attire, while incorporating them in a more luxurious fashion.
Americana stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of tradition in an ever-evolving world. By bringing together the timeless elegance of an All-American designer with the storied history of an iconic event, we bridge the gap between past and present, offering a fresh perspective to a new generation. With Ralph Lauren's collection for the Kentucky Derby, we invite you to embrace the beauty of tradition and celebrate the legacy of American style.

Awarded "Best Capstone" at The Fashion Event 2024