Purists and those in favor of a more classic approach may shy away from Rugby’s Dart Tie Bar. I think I even may, but in truth we’re the boring ones; the fundamentalists that take it all too literally. What I would not shy away from would be a dart tie bar in gun metal. I’m serious too. Nevertheless, this is a fine example of how to add a dash of classic tie bar without trying to be like that guy. $39.50 (no round-up?)

If the world really is going to end this year then you don’t want to spend your last few swimming months looking like a mug in badly chosen shorts. Ralph Lauren, always on hand with a clothing solution, offers up these multicoloured striped shorts. They sit just above the knee, a good resting place for this kind of garment, and feature a selection of pockets. Oi Polloi has them.

Polo Ralph Lauren bring us this classic single breasted trench. Hidden button placket front, single vent, slant pockets, this one comes with a waist belt making the whole thing feel a lot smarter. The fabric is described as ‘medium weight cotton canvas’ which means you’ll probably want to layer up underneath. As much as we love the double breasted variety they’re not the easiest styles to wear. If you’re going to take your cue from a detective on this one we’d say Columbo rather than the Pink Panther. Find it at Nitty Gritty.

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Another brand video this weekend – this time from the Ralph Lauren world. The art of the craftsman in Europe are discussed and explored. “When you say something is made by hand…” sums up much of the conversation here. Via Hodinkee.

Another great look from the 2011 New York City Rugby Tweed Run. Ralph Lauren does a solid job of bringing the tweed fans together with their old school, big wheel bicycles. Hoping we saw some old wood rim bikes as well. It looks to have been a very pleasant group ride through Manhattan. Via thinkfeel.tv.

A no nonsense holdall from Ralph Lauren. This sizable piece of kit fits into the ’short week’ rather than weekender category. Plenty of room for all your holiday essentials. If you find yourself without without any particular destination we wouldn’t judge if you carried this around with just your phone and wallet inside. With a price tag that might make your eyes water you may as well get as much use out of this handsome carrier as you can. Detachable strap, luggage tag, Made in Italy, find it at Mr. Porter.

More look after the click.

Pashley Bicycles works over 50 limited edition bikes for Ralph Lauren. The bicycles commemorate the Rugby Ralph Lauren Tweed Run coming October 15 to New York City.

Here it is: the full interview between Oprah and Ralph Lauren. We wonder if we can pop down to Ralph’s ranch for a cuppa?

The Ralph Lauren Black Label collection dips their toes into the world of denim this week with the launch of the “Black Label Denim” collection. a variety of fits are available in the denim jeans themselves, which look to pull from all angles including moto and cargos. Washed trousers, pea coats, cashmeres, and shirts are also included. The price ranges in the normal district and gets to $1200 highs.

More looks after the click.

There are certain items that Ralph Lauren has and probably will always do right, the shirt being one of them. These gingham examples from Polo are hard to argue with. Custom fit cotton poplin, button down collar, a silmmer modern cut, a nice alternative to the heavier Oxford. -ld