|
Written by Kate Smith
|
|
The name Ralph Lauren has become synonymous with American style. He redefined American fashion and home decor and has always stayed true to his vision. Ralph was the first designer I ever had a love affair with and he has held a special place in my heart ever since. I was so taken with him in fact that I paid way more than I really could afford at the time for a complete set of bedding in a dark green, gold and burgundy paisley/plaid combination and nervously wondered if I could I pull off the look of an equestrian estate in my starter apartment. Ralph didn't let me down. Right there In my small bedroom with one exposed brick wall Ralph took my hand and gave me the confidence to show off my sophistocated side, to use dark colors because I loved them and to mix patterns in my home in the same way I did with menswear. How can you not love a guy forever when you have such a beautiful beginning? I can't remember exactly when Ralph Lauren launched their paint line but I do remember in the early '90's when he was one of the first to package faux finishes. It seemed everyone wanted to have the look of suede or leather or denim on their walls. The problem was the not many homeowners had the patience to successfully tackle this as a DIY project and not many painters had interest in a finish that required special care and extra time to apply. Even I have to admit that I wasn't happy with my first attempt at the suede finish. I had followed the instructions exactly but it didn't have the look I thought it would so I did a bit of experimenting and eventually found a way that I could get an absolutely perfect finish. My walls won rave reviews and after teaching many people how to get the same results I sent an illustrated version of how I appled the finish to the folks at Ralph Lauren. I don't know if they ever looked at my suggestions but the instructions on the can today are amazingly similar to my technique. At least a girl can dream of having Ralph take notice. But Ralph Lauren's paint isn't just about special finishes. It is all about color! From sun-drenched brights to time-honored neutrals his paint palette never disappoints. His collections are inspired by the classic hues of an ancestral home, sophisticated shades reminiscent of a city landscape and the painterly hues of the world's master painters. On the lighter side he offers shades of white infused with subtle tone and depth. Color is what brough Ralph and I together in the beginning and three decades later its what keeps the love affair alive. Discover the magic for youself at Ralph Lauren Home.
|