Less is More

Last week in New York, I stopped by to check out the newly restored Rhinelander, which just reopened as the Ralph Lauren menswear store on Madison and 72nd. Even though it's still hidden behind scaffolding and construction scrim, the store opened for business at the start of Fashion Week. The newly constructed women's & home flagship is set to open across the street in a few weeks.

The space recalls a posh men's club... all polished mahogany, deep leather seating and richly colored hues. It goes without saying that the store is beautifully designed and the service was excellent. However, the RL merchandising team could use a lesson in restraint – in this case, less would be more. As I navigated Purple Label, I nearly knocked over a bespoke mannequin and his friend. I also had trouble finding the timepieces, which I was astounded to learn flank the front door – in plain view, but overshadowed by other gorgeousness. The sky-lit fourth floor RLX boutique was a much needed respite from the navigating dark rooms alongside Russian oligarchs.