Preppy, Artfully Disheveled, and Incredibly 2026: The Ralph Tuck Is Key to Effortless Layering

      From the outset, designer Ralph Lauren has consistently represented the style that defines the brand. A sense of effortless cool, classic prep, and aspirational Americana dressing permeates, whether seen in the pieces themselves or in their styling. Certain foundational styling elements have endured over the years and have become RL trademarks, such as the Ralph tuck, which has recently gained popularity online, from TikTok to fashion coverage in GQ. A photo of Lauren from around 1983 displays his iconic Ralph tuck. In the image, the designer sports a collared denim shirt unbuttoned to the waist over a white undershirt and an army-green overshirt, with both tops tucked into jeans and topped off with a Western leather belt featuring a silver buckle. This look has remained a staple for Lauren in various forms, as he takes bows at his runway shows and throughout the brand's collections and campaigns. Below, discover how many are incorporating the Ralph tuck into their wardrobes. To emulate Lauren’s style, start with a white undershirt and jeans, layer on multiple collared shirts unbuttoned to the navel, and complete the outfit with a Western belt.

      (Image credit: Ralph Lauren)

      Polo Ralph Lauren

      Classic Fit Denim Shirt

      LESET

      Nando Ribbed Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt

      Levi's

      Karlie Utility Jacket

      CITIZENS OF HUMANITY

      Annina Mid-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans

      Michael Kors

      Leather Waist Belt

      The Turtleneck Approach

      While a white T-shirt works well as a base layer for the Ralph tuck, you can switch to a turtleneck for a winter-ready look.

      (Image credit: Getty Images)

      Hommegirls

      Chambray Blue Classic Shirt

      Polo Ralph Lauren

      Stretch-Blend Turtleneck

      Gap

      Oversized Wool-Blend Blazer

      Michael Michael Kors

      Noemie Distressed Leather Boots

      The Layered-Collared-Shirt Approach

      Layering collared shirts, ideally in crisp poplin with contrasting hues, creates a striking effect. Complete the outfit with a signature leather belt and additional accessories like a tie and shoulder bag.

      (Image credit: Polo Ralph Lauren)

      Polo Ralph Lauren

      Slim Fit Oxford Shirt

      Polo Ralph Lauren

      Slim Fit Striped Oxford Shirt

      Déhanche

      Hollyhock Braided Belt

      Polo Ralph Lauren

      Striped Silk Repp Tie

      The Sweater Approach

      Another variation on the turtleneck theme? Start with a cozy knit layer. For an alpine vibe, choose a Fair Isle turtleneck sweater and pair it with a cowboy hat.

      Polo Ralph Lauren

      The Iconic Relaxed Fit Oxford Shirt

      Varley

      Marcie Fairisle Sweater

      ZARA

      Z1975 Cropped Mid-Rise Jeans

      Khaite

      Nevada Square Toe Bootie