Ralph Lauren’s private sale just started for this season. By private sale, I assume they mean it’s private to anyone who can click on a hyperlink, as the sale is pretty much public to anyone with a computer (you do have to click on their special URL, however). As silly as the name is, the sale is pretty good. Discounts are up to 40% off with an extra 15% if you shop before May 1st.
My favorite items include Ralph Lauren’s Singleton loafers and Sanderson wingtips, both of which are discounted to about $300 at checkout. There are also colorful summer shirts for $60, and my favorite ready-to-wear trousers, Ralph Lauren’s Preston model, in a solid brown and houndstooth linen at $260. The Preston is a genuine classic cut with a high rise. I taper mine to about an 8” opening, and have yet to find better pair of ready-to-wear pants (just make sure you’re choosing from the made in Italy line, as Preston is just the cut, and the Asian made Prestons aren’t terribly worth buying).
There’s also a yellow fireman’s slicker, similar to the one I’m selling on eBay. It’s admittedly a silly jacket, but I love the design. It reminds me of a particularly great photo of Ralph Lauren himself. In it, he’s wearing a yellow fireman’s jacket, navy crewneck sweater, and a blue chambray shirt. I assume below is maybe a light blue pair of jeans. It’s a charming look that can bring a smile to one’s face on a dreary day.