Ralph Lauren Purple Label; Italy vs USA vs England

I’m going to be writing a few posts on the differences between Italian, American and English made RLPL pieces starting with ties.

I currently own five RLPL ties, but we’ll focus on these three for now.

The deep red and green polka dot is Italian and made from madder silk, which creates a stunning knot. I'm not sure what the material the American made tie made from, though it feels really nice around the neck but is a bit short, no fancy “sprezz” flair with this one! Lastly, the silver tie is English made and I have yet to give it a maiden voyage. Amazing tie, but the gold dot on the label means that it unfortunately went to an outlet. I believe this is because there is a small, purple stitch in the tie from the label.

Let's start with construction. All of these ties are handmade as stated on the content tag, with hand stitched loop holes and finishings. The Italian tie has a lot more of a softer feel to it all over. The English is as you would expect from English tailoring; very neat, regimented and in order. This is the opposite from the American, which can feel quite stiff (but this I guess is the fabric)

The lining and other purple accents.. Each one of the ties has that beautiful purple tag and lining. But none are the same purple... As you can see in the photo below, the English tie has a richer hue to the silk than the others. Also the Italian made RLPL ties have introduced the silver text into the lining. (Nice touch!)

Now I'll talk about jacketing. The pinstripe is a Chester Barrie made suit (Made in England 80% wool, 15% mohair) and the brown one is an Italian 100% cashmere oprhan jacket made by St Andrew's, which I use as a sport coat. Both are dual vent, with flat flapped pockets and a ticket pocket.

I'll talk about the similarities first.

Both are fully canvassed, with hand stitching under the pocket flaps, hand finished button holes, and the same number of pockets inside and out.

The only differences are that the cashmere has a hand-applied collar, and the two jackets have different cuffs and backs.

To conclude this post on the ties and jacketing of Italian, American & English RLPL; all have their own charm, though I personally prefer the English ties and Italian tailoring. However, some I know like the Italian over the English!

My next post will be on the shirts and trousers when I get some English made garments. I only have Italian so far!

-Purp