Ralph Lauren’s Pre-Fall 2026 collection represents a determined move back to texture, craftsmanship, and down-to-earth chic, proving that Ralph Lauren still has what it takes to move forward while staying true to itself. With this subtle yet confident message, the collection focuses on natural colours, textured materials, and perfectly cut tailoring to offer a thoughtful wardrobe rather than a Fashion Statement.
The colour palette is instantly arresting. Mushroom brown, chocolate, khaki, grey stone, and muted olive are dominant in the range, and all have a strong landscape-like rather than season-like quality. Such is the character of colours that are meant to wear well, and endure beyond the cycle of fashion.
There is a calm and confident elegance that slots Ralph Lauren squarely into the current move towards understated luxury.
The craftsmanship of the clothing takes centre stage in this vision. There are a number of pieces that feature very detailed hand craftsmanship, such as leather skirts with hand-cut fringe and suede jackets treated to give them a soft, worn appearance. The fabrics are also sand-washed, brushed, or subtly distressed to exude a sense of individuality rather than perfection. This attitude towards craftsmanship has been a longstanding tenet of Ralph Lauren’s vision.
A tailored suit is an enduring, defining factor. These tweed blazers, with structured shoulders and tailored lines, form the backbone of the range, complemented by loose-fit chinos and relaxed-fitting shirts that offer contrast through their blend of structure and function. There is a sense of deliberate lines but nothing very rigid, implying garments intended for activity rather than mere show. The range also features some strong supporting roles for trench coats, silk bombers, and Balmacaan coats, with utility finishes.
The stylistic decisions throughout the collection are based on contrasts. Thick leathers are layered over tightly cut jackets and flowing dresses, while shiny silks are matched against matte suede and weighty tweed. It is this dialogue between soft and tough, shine and dull, which imbues this collection with a quiet tension.
“For our audience at Ekpo Africa, we can see that Ralph Lauren Pre-Fall 2026 delivers on a broader discussion about value and heritage in fashion,” says Ekpo. “In a world that is saturated with excess on the runway stage, Pre-Fall 2026 addresses all those excesses and says that value lies in craftsmanship and heritage pieces that are meaningful beyond their momentality.” With this collection, the Ralph Lauren brand continues its evolution in heritage language, projecting a future vision of modern sophistication inspired by tradition and craftsmanship.
