1996 Sampler Patchwork Sweater

Part of the Fall 1996 American Sportsman capsule, this sweater collages folk art–inspired panels with visible stitching, showing off its hand-knit construction. Traditional winter motifs like Fair Isle, tartan, and cable knit are juxtaposed with a historical American flag, signature sampler square, and downhill skier, a Ralph Lauren holiday icon for more than three decades.