Polo Ralph Lauren Rewrites the American Summer at Oak Bluffs
Salt, sun, legacy
For decades, Ralph Lauren has defined a vision of American style—rooted in East Coast tradition, Western romanticism, and timeless tailoring. It’s a world of aspiration and elegance, shaped by a carefully curated sense of heritage. But that vision has gradually expanded, recasting what American heritage looks like and who gets to be part of it.
That shift began with the capsule co-created with Morehouse and Spelman, two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), honouring academic excellence and Black style through a richly considered design lens. Then came the Artist in Residence programme with Diné textile artist Naiomi Glasses, whose Navajo weaving traditions introduced a new visual language into the Ralph Lauren universe.
Now, the journey continues with Polo Ralph Lauren for Oak Bluffs—a limited-edition collection celebrating the historic Black summer haven in Martha’s Vineyard.
In Oak Bluffs, heritage isn’t preserved—it’s lived. For over a century, Black families—alumni groups, beachgoers, and homeowners alike—have returned to its shores, writing their own version of the American summer. This collection picks up that thread with polish and intention.
“This collection is about more than a charming coastal town; it’s a story of the American dream,” said Ralph Lauren, Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer. “Oak Bluffs’ unique history, traditions and sense of community deeply inspire me and speak to what we are all searching for—a place where you can be free, uncontrived, joyful and truly at home.”
The new capsule intertwines prep tradition with the soul of the island. Designed by Morehouse and Spelman alumni at Ralph Lauren, the pieces nod to both institutions’ signature colours—maroon, white, soft blue—translating school pride into breezy, coastal silhouettes. Twill jackets embroidered with Oak Bluffs landmarks ground the collection in place, while crisp caps and nautical stripes evoke the island’s summer rituals—from leisurely bike rides to golden-hour front porch socials.
Spelman’s soft blues and ivory take shape in a patchwork cardigan bearing its Jaguar mascot. Morehouse’s maroon finds bold expression in a satin varsity jacket embroidered with the Maroon Tiger. Rounding it off is a quilted patchwork set—jacket and blanket—that captures the island’s essence in stitch and story, with each panel honouring its nautical legacy.
That storytelling carries into the campaign, directed in collaboration with Cole Brown—who spent formative summers on the island—and brought to life on film. Shot by Nadine Ijewere, with video by Azariah Bjørvig, the visuals layer archival imagery with lived experience, capturing Oak Bluffs through those who know it best: seasonal residents, multigenerational homeowners, community historians, local entrepreneurs, and alumni of Morehouse and Spelman who’ve long considered it home.
Catch the full campaign film here:
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