How to Nail the Preppy Equestrian Look

When it comes to defining quintessential American style, few names stand as tall as Ralph Lauren. His designs from the 90s continue to inspire, offering a blend of timeless elegance and rugged charm. While I love my maximalist and glam pieces that are a nod to the 60s and 80s, there’s something about 90s Ralph Lauren that just gets me! My latest drop for The Edit sold out in just a couple of hours, so I know you’re all just as obsessed as I am!

Mastering the Ralph Lauren look is all about nailing the essentials. Here’s your guide to recreating the perfect 90s Ralph Lauren wardrobe, including the must-have pieces.

Ralph Lauren fall essentials
Equestrian style Ralph Lauren

The Preppy Equestrian Aesthetic

The 90s Ralph Lauren collections embraced a polished yet relaxed style, merging elements of preppy Ivy League fashion with equestrian flair. Think tailored blazers, cozy knits, rustic plaids, and rich textures like velvet and tweed—all styled to perfection. Lauren’s runway shows of the era were a study in contrasts: feminine skirts and flowing dresses paired with masculine blazers, or rugged denim softened with cashmere sweaters. The result? A timeless, layered look that remains relevant today.

The Essentials for Recreating the 90s Ralph Lauren Look

To capture the preppy equestrian aesthetic, you need a mix of staple pieces that exude both elegance and practicality. Here are the key elements:

Blazer
A well-tailored blazer is the foundation of the Ralph Lauren look. In the 90s, Lauren’s blazers featured structured shoulders and clean lines, often in rich fabrics like tweed, houndstooth, or wool. Pair them with denim for a laid-back feel, or layer over a dress for a more feminine take.

Crewneck Sweater
Whether made from cashmere, cotton, or wool, the crewneck sweater is a versatile layering piece that adds a cozy, collegiate vibe. Opt for classic, neutral shades, or go bold with iconic Ralph Lauren motifs, like the Polo bear or preppy stripes.

Denim
No 90s Ralph Lauren wardrobe is complete without denim. Straight-leg or high-waisted jeans, often paired with blazers or oversized knits, are a cornerstone of this look. Dark indigo or a well-worn wash both evoke the vintage charm Ralph Lauren is known for.

Knits
The 90s were all about layering, and Ralph Lauren’s knits—whether cable-knit sweaters or chunky cardigans—provided warmth and texture. These pieces were often styled with flowing skirts or denim, creating the perfect balance between rustic charm and refined elegance.

Velvet
For those looking to elevate their 90s Ralph Lauren look, velvet is key. A velvet blazer or skirt adds a luxurious touch to any outfit, offering a rich texture that plays beautifully against more casual fabrics like denim or cotton.

Equestrian-Inspired Pieces
Channel the iconic equestrian style with riding boots, jodhpurs, or a classic button-down shirt tucked into tailored pants. Ralph Lauren’s love for the equestrian lifestyle was reflected in his use of leather accents, brass buttons, and structured silhouettes that evoke the spirit of the hunt.

Vintage Ralph Lauren

Understanding Ralph Lauren’s 90s Labels

To shop for vintage Ralph Lauren, it’s important to understand the key labels from the 90s that each brought something unique to the brand’s offerings. You can learn more about the labels here.

How to Style the 90s Ralph Lauren Look Today

To bring the 90s Ralph Lauren aesthetic into your modern wardrobe, think about balance. Pair a structured blazer with distressed denim for a high-low mix, or style a feminine dress with rugged riding boots for that equestrian flair. Layering is key—add a chunky knit over a floral skirt, and finish with a leather belt to cinch the waist for a more defined silhouette.

Accessories also play an important role. A vintage Ralph Lauren belt, riding boots, or a classic leather bag can tie the look together. And don’t forget, Ralph Lauren’s pieces are timeless, so investing in a vintage find from one of these 90s labels will pay off in versatility and style for years to come.

Thank you for reading.

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