Ralph Lauren SS16

It was a red, white and blue affair at Ralph Lauren – fitting from the man who practically single-handedly put American fashion on the map – where the designer returned to the trends he delivers so well: nautical and prep.

Starting off with navy-style looks, including striped bathing suits, sailor trousers and gold-button blazers, the collection quickly took a turn for the vibrant with flippy, strappy sundresses in primary red, geometric print blouses and maxi skirts that appeared plain from the front but had splashy primary prints sliced into their sides.

Following a preppy series of starched white shirting (with one particular dress with a lace-up neckline standing out) came tan leather jackets and culottes, buttery soft even to the sight, and teamed with white, navy or pale blue separates. All this cleanly paved the way for the gowns – with criss-cross straps and side cut-outs or bandeau style, they came in poppy red, striped or printed with delicate flowers for a fresh take on red carpet dressing.

"Ralph's show was a nautical extravaganza where the hero pieces were certainly the final exits, showing stunning blue and white draped gowns, of course, casually paired with a holiday basket tote and sandals. Shots of scarlet rounded out the patriotic colour palette, which showcased a dose of tried-and-true preppiness in the form of white holiday outfits paired with tan leather jackets," said Helen David, Harrods Chief Merchant, of the show.