Ralph Lauren Spring Summer 2012

 Ralph Lauren launched the show with casual daily wear in a pastel color palate. Powder blue, pale pink, pale yellow, and mint green separates were showcased, styled with long, flower-print scarves, bucket hats, basket purses, and platform shoes, perfectly balancing the luxurious material.
Following his pastel color palate, the collection moved into looks that were crisp and clean a refreshing adjustment. Tailored trousers and menswear-inspired jackets, vests, and ties added layers and dimension to all-white outfits; tassel belts and long, single-strand pearls added simple luxury; pinstripe pants and jackets were a simple, subtle alternative.

Moving into the more formal looks of the collection, Lauren maintained cohesion. Models walked the runway in pale pink, blue, and mint green gowns. Enormous feather stoles accessorized gowns, and feathers adorned hemlines to provide an interesting texture. White silk gowns were breathtaking, some with open backs and elaborate beadwork.
On the Buchanan side of the story were wallpaper floral bias-cut dresses, timely pastel silk pajama pants, and “vintaged” cashmere sweaters with faux moth holes. For accessories: raffia platform sandals, embroidered and fringed bags, and delicate scarves tied tight at the neck. Lauren’s girl Gatsbys had pinstriped three-piece suits with cropped pants, shorts, or full trousers to choose from and the occasional anachronism in the form of a pink leather Perfecto jacket