Elevated Essentials: Rag & Bone's Urban Prep Reinvention
The Genesis of Modern Prep: Reimagining Ivy League Style
For its Pre-Fall 2026 menswear offering, the Rag & Bone creative team was deeply immersed in the concept of classic American collegiate fashion. Kyle Sweeney, the senior vice president of menswear, articulated the brand's vision: an \"evolution of traditional American Ivy wear.\" He further elaborated on their objective to explore an \"urban prep idea, viewed through a highly sophisticated lens, distinctly New York City-centric.\" The core principle guiding this collection was the development of a contemporary uniform, founded on the belief that \"every great uniform begins with an exceptional shirt.\"
Shirting as the Foundation: New Details and Relaxed Silhouettes
The collection's emphasis on shirting is evident in its diverse range of offerings, which incorporate innovative details. Classic oxford button-downs, for instance, are updated with subtle stamped graphics on the front placket, lending a contemporary and youthful edge. These shirts also feature more relaxed silhouettes, departing from rigid traditional fits. Complementing these versatile tops are boxy shorts with artfully distressed hemlines, designed to transition effortlessly between formal and casual settings. Denim pieces in this collection also embrace a more relaxed aesthetic, with the carpenter jean emerging as a standout style. These jeans are presented in vintage washes reminiscent of the 1990s, enhancing their timeless appeal. The styling across the collection is predominantly monochromatic, creating a cohesive and impactful visual statement, frequently featuring layered collar arrangements that add depth and character to each ensemble.