Ralph Lauren Fall 2012

>> One can always depend on Ralph Lauren to close out the New York season with a refreshingly classic offering. This season's palette cleanser? A reinterpretation of one of Lauren's most signature references: the English countryside. The opening looks consisted of menswear-inspired suits in jaunty silhouettes and a mix of classic, cozy fabrics. Herringbone, tweed, plaid, and some very lovely fair isle intarsias were done in a rich assortment of pastels and earthy hues. A series of ocelot-printed shearling coats looked especially fresh.

Evening was another high point, with several gowns featuring beaded deco motifs or elaborate embellished collars. A series of floor-length columns in gold lamé were so breathtaking that they prompted one onlooker to comment: "I bet we'll be seeing these on the red carpet next week." Indeed.