Vintage Ralph Lauren

Knitwear, polos, quarter-zips and caps. Ralph Lauren's one of the most consistent labels we get, because it was made well enough that twenty-year-old pieces still turn up in good condition.

The label covers several lines and they're not the same thing: Polo Ralph Lauren, Polo Sport and Chaps were made to different specs and sold at different prices, and the tag is what tells you which one you've got. We photograph the neck label on every piece rather than describing it, so you can see for yourself. On knitwear, the cuffs and underarms are where wear shows first, and any pilling or thinning goes into the listing.

For knitwear and heavier pieces, browse vintage sweatshirts, and for outerwear see vintage jackets. For the same sort of thing from elsewhere, try vintage Tommy Hilfiger.

Common questions

What's the difference between Polo Ralph Lauren, Polo Sport and Chaps?
They're separate lines under the same parent label, made to different specs and sold at different prices. The neck tag tells you which one a piece is, and we photograph it on every listing.

How does vintage Ralph Lauren polo sizing run?
Longer in the body and shorter in the sleeve than a modern polo of the same size. The chest measurement we've listed is the number worth trusting.

How do I look after old knitwear?
Hand wash it cold and dry it flat. A machine wash will felt wool and pull cotton knit out of shape, and you won't get either back. Store it folded rather than hung, so the shoulders keep their line.