It is safe to say that the 2010s were the decade of sartorial nostalgia. From the return of 1990s style (see chunky sneakers, bucket hats and tie-dye) to the reign of streetwear (see hoodies, logo prints and bum/fanny packs, sorry, belt bags), the cyclical nature of fashion all but guarantees that attire that was once questionable will become cool years later. Now that we’re into the 2020s, it seems that the wayback fashion machine is raring to go again.

Before athleisure was athleisure, Polo Ralph Lauren turned sports-inspired pieces into everyday wear, and the brand has come to define a certain preppy American style, popularised in the 1950s and 1960s and known as the Ivy League look. Launched in 1967, it’s no surprise that Polo Ralph Lauren has plenty of archival designs to turn to, allowing the label to create new pieces that are reminiscent of early collegiate style and yet still feel fresh today.

All the hallmarks of classic retro looks are represented in the new collection. Primary colours? Check. Oversized silhouettes, graphic prints and sporty motifs? Check, check and check. Channelling the vibrant colour-block style proliferated in the 1990s, this striped shawl-collar sweater is pure all-American style. The relaxed cut speaks to its preppy influences, which allows for a collared shirt to be worn underneath. It also works well as an extra layer that can be easily removed on days when the weather is unpredictable.

The rugby-inspired polo shirt would not look out of place on the set of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (we’ve previously concluded that Carlton Banks is a style icon, after all). Stamped with a yacht emblem across the chest, it’s a nod to the brand’s association with the sailing world – it outfitted the US team’s uniforms for the 1992 America’s Cup.

Of course, the look would not be complete without a pair of chinos and minimalist sneakers, proving that fashion may come and go, but Ivy League style is for ever.