Ralph Lauren is neither preppy nor WASPy. It is an aspirational brand for those who would like to be considered preppy or WASPy, which is different. Take a look inside the RL flagship stores in NYC and elsewhere to see what I mean. read more
Bhasin points to Smathers & Branson and Southern Tide as two other up-and-coming preppy brands that have managed to capture consumers. 3. It isn't relevant to young consumers. Via Flickr. Helgesen likens Ralph Lauren's woes to those of Tiffany & Co., another brand that has struggled to be relevant to young consumers who demand speed and newness. read more