Every runway show that defined Ralph Lauren’s legacy in one book

Ralph Lauren officially enters fashion’s editorial hall of fame with Ralph Lauren Catwalk, a publication that traces nearly six decades of the brand’s history through its runway collections. Published by Thames & Hudson and written by fashion journalist Bridget Foley, the volume joins the iconic Catwalk series, making Ralph Lauren the first American fashion house to become part of this visual archive, which already includes names such as Chanel, Dior, Prada and Yves Saint Laurent.

Featuring more than 1,300 runway images, the book revisits everything from the brand’s first womenswear collection for Autumn 1972 to the Autumn 2025 womenswear presentation, showcasing the evolution of a label that turned the ‘American way of life’ into its main creative language. Ralph Lauren did not simply design clothes — he built worlds, characters and entire lifestyles. His runway shows — often cinematic in nature — established a narrative where different universes coexisted, from classic sophistication and Western influences to aristocratic references and collegiate sportswear.

The publication also focuses on the origins of the brand and on Ralph Lauren’s role as a pioneer of the lifestyle concept within the luxury industry. From designing ties under the Polo label in 1967 to transforming his company into one of the most recognised fashion corporations in the world, the designer completely redefined the idea of the contemporary American brand. Inspired by his wife Ricky, Lauren infused his collections with a deeply personal vision that, over the years, became an aspirational symbol recognised worldwide. The result was a distinctive and timeless aesthetic, defined by an apparently effortless elegance.

Ralph Lauren Catwalk is now available in selected bookshops and online platforms.