What is the Ralph Lauren aesthetic?
The instantly identifiable design style cultivated by Ralph Lauren is something to be applauded. Already synonymous with timeless, preppy, American style; in 1983 Ralph channeled his namesake fashion label and bestowed a gift to interiors upon us. And boy, do we thank him.
So how does it remain so very relevant to this day? Capturing an enduring blend of rustic Western style, British-inspired stately charm, and contemporary elegance, the Ralph Lauren interior design style is celebrated today for its rich layered textures, attention to detail, and a real commitment to a lifestyle.
Balancing a curated look with lived-in charm, luxury with heritage, ‘Ralph Lauren is just about as timeless as it gets,’ says interior designer Kathy Kuo. Keen to find out what exactly makes it so special, we speak to interior designers for their take on this age-old style.
What Is The Ralph Lauren Aesthetic?
(Image credit: HÁM Interiors / Photography Alexander James)
Now, when we say the Ralph Lauren ‘look’ is so easily recognizable, we mean just that. But it is hard to put a finger on why for one good reason.
Rather cleverly, the Ralph Lauren world has an aesthetic for every mood, location, or eventuality. Whether you reside in a preppy country home, a sleek New York loft, or a log cabin straight out of Yellowstone, this uber-American look feels entirely at home.
‘When I think of the Ralph aesthetic, I think of classic Americana, high-end preppy details, and equestrian motifs,’ Kathy continues. ‘For interiors that means an upscale and moody color palette – hunter green, navy blue, and burgundy – dark wood furniture and frames with eye-catching woodworking, and plenty of burnished brass and pewter metallic accents.’
(Image credit: New Age Interiors / Photography Ric Marder)
While it screams Americana, it is also rooted in bohemia. Known for a curated intentional clutter of references from Western to coastal decor, this style remains cozy, comforting, and warm – certainly not maximalist.
House of Hive co-founder Kailee Blalock says: ‘The Ralph Lauren aesthetic is making a strong comeback right now, and we’re seeing a resurgence of classic, timeless elements,’ she explains around the resurgence of this ‘trend’.
‘Plaid fabrics in rich colors like navy, hunter green, and burgundy are definitely on the rise. This look works beautifully in-home studies, mudrooms, and bedrooms but can be extended throughout the home.’
(Image credit: BHDM Design / Photography Reid Rolls)
Taking a more refined approach, Designer Dan Mazzarini, principal and creative Director of BHDM Design and ARCHIVE spent six years working at Ralph Lauren in-store before founding BHDM and used that experience as a jumping-off point to the design of this 5th Avenue residence.
‘We connected with the homeowner over a mutual love for the Ralph Lauren aesthetic – its clean, tailored lines, and classic yet bold black and white mood boards in particular,’ explains Dan.
‘We also peppered in some interpreted Ralph Lauren-inspired details throughout. Throughout the space, layers of luxurious black and white fabrics (even some Ralph Lauren!) set a sumptuous backdrop to art and the family within.’
The Hallmarks Of Ralph Lauren Interiors
Creating spaces that feel both aspirational and approachable, these are the hallmarks of a Ralph Lauren-inspired home, according to the experts.
1. A mix of aesthetics
(Image credit: Logan Killen Interiors / Photography Alison Gootee)
‘What I love about Ralph Lauren, is that he has so many aesthetics to choose from and they’re all fabulous,’ says interior designer Bethany Adams. ‘I’m working on a ski house in Vail so right now I’m into Ralph’s mountain chic look. Navajo blankets, leather, and sheepskin all pair beautifully with custom-tailored upholstery, vintage skis, and the natural logs of this gorgeous home,’ she explains.
The Ralph Lauren aesthetic is unique in its ability to marry seemingly contrasting styles and just make them work. Think classic refinement with rich wood paneling, leather furniture, a touch of feminity, and intricate patterns like houndstooth or plaid with an American frontier-inspired edge.
‘Ralph Lauren is known for many different looks & themes,’ agrees Jane Landino, from Taylor Howes. ‘From the iconic classic blue and white stripes mixed with overscale Chinoiserie Vases to the Modern Penthouse, Art Deco, Western, and Modern Country, but the key is a mix of vintage pieces, with more modern items, and high-end finishes such as stitched leather, suede, knurled silver, and cashmere.’
2. Antiques and distressed finishes
(Image credit: New Age Interiors / Photography Ric Marder )
For Karin Krinsky of New Age Interiors who designed the bedroom, above, the space ‘was inspired by the look of country living with a New York City mindset. With warm neutral tones with dark blues and camel leathers as the accents, this home is designed for easy living but still with high style in mind.’
As well as an eclectic marriage of interior design styles, to create this aesthetic you want to create a story with a mix of natural materials, vintage decor, and contemporary accents.
‘The key is to focus on timeless, quality materials,’ says Kailee. ‘Leathers, dark woods, and elegant fabrics that withstand the test of time. Ralph Lauren interiors also celebrate heritage and craftsmanship, so decorating with antique or heirloom pieces can really enhance this aesthetic, making it feel both refined and lived-in.’
3. Layer, layer again, and layer some more
(Image credit: Logan Killen Interiors / Photography Jacqueline Marque)
The magic of the Ralph Lauren look is in the layers. It’s about building up a room in a way that feels both intentional and homey with plush textiles, patterned fabrics, and decor to allow your space to tell a story.
‘When we think of Ralph Lauren’s timeless style, warm layers of plaids, stripes, leathers, and rich woods come to mind,’ explains Kate and Jensen, founders of Logan Killen Interiors. ‘Adding an antique rug or overstuffed armchair is a great way to tap into this comfortable, inviting style. His livable and transportive rooms have been an inspiration to us for as long as we can remember.’
Start with foundational elements, like rugs, furniture, and curtains, and follow with throws, cushions, and decorative accessories. Plaid blankets, Navajo-inspired fabrics, distressed leather, and faux furs or sheepskin will all help the space to feel welcoming.
A subtler take on traditional tartan or plaid, this Fairpark pillow will make a lovely vignette when styled up with a mix of florals and woven fabrics. We love the ruffle fringe.
Loloi Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Banks Denim/Clay 7′-6″ x 9′-6″ Area Rug
Sabrea Leather Lumbar Pillow
In an earthy chestnut brown, this genuine leather lumbar accent pillow will lend a rustic look and feel to your couch or armchair. Pair with vintage wood that will both patina over time.
4. A nod to Western
A defining characteristic of Ralph’s style leans on Western and equestrian accents like horse-bit motifs, leather, and rustic decor that pay homage to the American West.
‘Ralph Lauren greatly influences me; he captures the spirit of Western style by blending rugged Americana with timeless elegance,’ explains Tom Cox of HÁM Interiors. ‘This style resonates with me due to its practical, utilitarian nature – furnishings born out of necessity and deeply connected to the landscape.’
‘When thinking about Western interiors, the obvious hallmarks are natural materials like wood, wool, and leather, along with warm, earthy tones,’ Tom advises. ‘But it’s the subtler touches, like the layering of textiles or the use of antique, distressed finishes, that really add character and a sense of history to the space.’
Sourced from Argentina, this truly unique cowhide rug is the epitome of Western style. Place under a worn leather armchair to create a cozy reading corner.
Equestrian Pedestal Object
McGee & Co’s wooden horse is finished in a weathered black on an iron pedestal to add a subtle character to your decor. Equestrian lovers will be sure to glean some joy from seeing this in their homes.
Ralph Lauren Modern Equestrian Bedding Ledbury Throw Pillow
Part of the ‘Modern Equestrian’ bedding collection from Ralph Lauren, this luxurious throw pillow features graphic interpretations of saddle bridles with a horse-bit inspired zipper.
The Ralph Lauren aesthetic fosters a welcoming, lived-in, and inviting home. With an eclectic mix of influences, layers of texture, eras, and Americana accents; if you’re looking to Ralph Lauren to inspire your home you’re sure to create a space that tells a story, that evolves and grows with the people who live within it.
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