Ralph Lauren is going back to his roots and out of doors. For fall 2008, he showed graceful coats sculpted from the red-and-black buffalo check print fabric used for hunting, as well as blanket coats made from Navajo prints. A slim-cut fishing vests made of black silk topped a sexy suit in black cashmere. A little leopard print was worked into the collection, but this was no safari gear. More like a trip to Cabela’s gone glam.

Color was strong and focused. A black jacket came with racing stripes of emerald green. Red plaid in varied widths was used on everything from coats to shirts to evening gowns. Well-constructed outerwear featured bright shots of orange and deep purple.

And the color themes continued in the evening looks. A deep purple velvet gown with swirling gold embroidery spoke to the richness of Imperial Russia and the drapery of Erte drawings. A gold dress of embroidered tulle offered a glamorous touch, but it was a treat to see red-and-black hunting fabric turned into a body-hugging evening gown. Playing with these fabrics suggested the dynamic mind behind the collection. Despite the casual and rugged elements, basic black and charcoal formed the backdrop — making for a look of pure sophistication and ease.