Ralph Lauren goes classic for Hamptons show steeped in the American dream

Designer rolls out signature styles and western-inspired pieces for show opening New York fashion week

As a broke sales assistant in his early 20s, Ralph Lauren would drive to the eastern end of Long Island just to breathe the affluent air. The son of Jewish immigrants grew up in the Bronx and now has a net worth of $7bn (5.3bn). For many, his story is the epitome of the American dream.

So it felt fitting that Thursday night's show of his latest collection, which kicked off New York fashion week, stuck to the classics, including Lauren's polo player logo which has become the symbol of American style.