In 2025, I’m Channeling ‘90s Ralph Lauren Core

In the ‘90s, Lauren knew how to celebrate a woman’s figure with flattering pieces similar to this bespoke blazer. The single-breasted jacket is structured, shapely and streamlined to fit like a glove without feeling suffocating, thanks to its soft and stretchy blend. “[It’s] the best and only blazer you need,” says reviewer Kristina B., who notes that it runs true to size.

If you want to master Ralph Lauren Core like a pro, make sure to have a matching vest and pant suit at the ready like this striped set from Loft. It’s polished, relaxed and insanely sharp, especially for weekend strolls and brunches or weekday meetings. Best of all, the pieces are made from a blend that includes breathable cotton and cool linen, making this an ideal suit to wear throughout spring and well into the warm summer months.

This sateen wrap blazer looks strikingly similar to one of Lauren’s looks from the ‘90s. Sophisticated, comfortable and a nice twist on your traditional 9-to-5 wear, this glossy set will instantly elevate your look. It also comes with a removable tie belt, so you can wear the top cinched or loose for two different vibes.

The search for a tailored cardigan is over, thanks to this best-selling beauty from Jenni Kayne. The cozy cardigan nips in at the waist for the most flattering and effortless fit when buttoned. I’ve seen so many people wear it with a few buttons undone at both the top and the bottom for a casual effortlessness, but it can also be worn undone over a tank top or T-shirt. “This cardigan is SO good,” gushes reviewer Sara C. “The cashmere knit is dense and substantial, the sleeves are extra-long and slightly bell shaped and the buttons feel luxe.”

A sleek pair of heels that have a low kitten heel, pointy toe and adjustable slingback strap? Now that’s Ralph Lauren Core-coded. The faux-snake print is an added bonus that’s makes the heel feel young and modern without erring on too trendy.

Lauren knew the power of a thin, leather belt, so it’s only right that I include this gem of a find from Lauren Ralph Lauren. I have a feeling the skinny accessory will become one of the most-worn pieces in your closet, especially because it’s reversible, boasting either a black or tan colored leather. Use it to cinch in an oversize blazer or accentuate a knit dress.

Comfortable, flattering and 100 percent cotton. What’s not to love about this Massimo Dutti beauty? It’s like wearing your comfiest tank top, but it actually looks chic and acceptable for the office and beyond.

Don’t underestimate this midi skirt from Free People. While it may look basic at first glance, the sheer satin fabric will make any outfit look bold and playful while keeping to the refined elegance that Ralph Lauren was known for. Pair it with black knee-high boots and a minimal, satin blouse for a runway-ready look.

Boatnecks and Ralph Lauren Core go hand-in-hand, so it’s great news that Everlane makes a quality top with the classy cut. According to the brand and customers, it can also double as a sweater because it’s made from a blend of organic cotton and Naia Renew recycled viscose, making the material a bit thicker and knit like.

Lauren loved the look of a shorter blazer like this single-breasted number from COS, and for good reason. The shrunken silhouette is great for defining your waistline while also highlighting the top of your jeans or skirt. While the relaxed piece won’t cinch you in at the waist or give you that hourglass silhouette, it will keep its sharpness all day long, thanks to the light padding in the shoulders.

Another must-have: a classic pencil skirt, of course. J.Crew’s version is stylish and functional, keeping aspects of the traditional design and mixing them with functional improvements, like a front slip for flexible mobility and the brand’s in-house four-season stretch material.  “I have this skirt in the white, navy and now the red,” gushes one J.Crew customer, who sized up one from her usual. “The skirt is amazing [and] nice quality. Yes, the slit is a bit high but just be mindful of how you sit!”

It’s safe to say that I have no notes for this Reformation button-down blouse. The slim fit is such a key component for mastering Ralph Lauren Core like a pro. I also appreciate that the cotton shirt has a touch of spandex in it, which will make it feel more comfortable than your 100 percent cotton Oxford shirts.

Investing in the Favorite Pant from Favorite Daughter is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I did have to get them tailored (even at 5'7), but I’m OK with that because they now fit like a glove and look like they were made for my measurements. The quality is fantastic and, I swear, they instantly elevate anything—even a black tank top, as Ralph Lauren demonstrated nearly three decades ago.

ICYDK, the mini Pickleball dress is one of Norma Kamali’s most beloved designs, and it’s one of my personal favorites because it reminds me of that iconic little grey dress Carrie Bradshaw wears on her way to meet her friends at a restaurant. The chic design features ruching along the sides and the back for an extra flattering fit, and I especially love how it comes in this preppy, checked pattern. According to the brand, this style tends to run large, so if you’re between sizes, I’d recommend sizing down for a comfortable fit.

Slip your feet into these two-tone slingbacks from Sam Edelman. They have a sturdy block heel that’ll make them easy to walk in and supportive, though some buyers do mention that the metal logo at the top of the foot can feel uncomfortable at times. They boast an elegant cap toe detail in a glossy patent leather, which provides a stunning contrast against the black body.

The secret to wearing a long-sleeve top in warmer weather is to invest in items like this polo from Alex Mill that features a blend of linen and cotton—aka, the best fabrics to wear if you run hot. According to the brand, the fitted silhouette is designed to flatter and feel lightweight when on, and customers seem to approve. One buyer writes, “Ugh, I love her so much. I literally wear it with baggy jeans for the cool-girl look or over a skirt for the cool-girl look or with my jean shorts for…the cool-girl look. I LOVE.”

This isn’t your average tank top, people. So, take this as your sign to upgrade your racerback pieces and pair this sleek, slim-fit halter top with a pair of tailored trousers and thin sweater tied at your waist to recreate an iconic ‘90s Ralph Lauren look. 

I don’t know who needs to hear this, but you can still wear a sweeter dress in the spring. Case in point: this midi number from Banana Republic. The ribbed knit is made from a blend of Merino wool and nylon, making it a great piece to wear on chilly evenings. It’s also sleeveless, so you won’t have to worry about sweating from stuffiness.