Step into the World of Vintage Ralph Lauren: A Collector's Journey
Prepare to be captivated by the story of Laird Mackintosh, a man whose passion for Ralph Lauren has led him to amass a collection that will make any fashion enthusiast envious. Mackintosh, a seasoned collector and owner of Thoroughbred NY, has an eye for the rarest and most coveted Ralph Lauren pieces, and he's here to share his top seven finds.
But first, let's set the scene. Imagine a showroom tucked away in the Hudson Valley, where every corner exudes the essence of vintage Ralph Lauren. This is Thoroughbred NY, a destination for collectors who appreciate the finer details of the designer's work. As Mackintosh puts it, "It's a place for those who know what they're getting into." And what they're getting into is a treasure trove of fashion history.
The Journey Begins:
Mackintosh's love affair with Ralph Lauren began in the 1980s at a Polo store in Calgary, Alberta. Fast forward to today, and he's not just a collector but a leading expert in Lauren's work, with a collection that includes iconic pieces from western wear to rare accessories.
The Ultimate Finds:
The 1982 Polo Tweed Suit: A thrilling discovery from an estate sale, this heavy tweed suit with a 'Derby' waistcoat is a piece Mackintosh had admired in the 1982 Polo catalog. Finding not one but two suits from the same catalog at the sale was a collector's dream come true.
The 1977 Shearling Overcoat: This coat holds a special place in Mackintosh's heart. Unbeknownst to him, it was the very same coat worn by the cowboy in Ralph Lauren's iconic 'Cowboy in the Snow' photograph. A true piece of fashion history!
The 1990s Polo Coat: The iconic Polo Coat, often in camel hair, is a staple in Mackintosh's personal collection. This particular piece, with its rare herringbone pattern, is a holy grail for Polo collectors.
The 1970s Tweed Jacket: Inspired by British hunting jackets, this jacket is one of Ralph's original designs. Mackintosh's version, over 50 years old, is a testament to the timelessness of the designer's work.
The 'Buzzy Kerbox' Blazer: Named after the famous surfer and Polo model, this blazer features the first-ever bullion crest created by Ralph Lauren. A true collector's item, it has adorned navy Polo blazers for decades.
The 1987 Stewart Tartan Luggage: This rare set accompanied Mackintosh and his wife on a recent trip. Its previous owner, a music executive, adds a touch of glamour to its history.
The 1978 Polo Cologne: The first fragrance Mackintosh ever bought, this iconic flask-shaped bottle holds a special place in his collection, especially the rare limited edition silver version.
And there you have it—a glimpse into the world of a lifelong Ralph Lauren collector. But here's where it gets controversial—is collecting vintage fashion a sustainable practice? With the fashion industry's impact on the environment, does collecting vintage mitigate or contribute to the issue? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's explore the complexities of sustainable fashion together.
