Polo Ralph Lauren has released a new limited-edition collection inspired by Oak Bluffs, a coastal town in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, known as a long-standing retreat for Black communities. The capsule draws directly from the town’s culture, its academic ties, and its distinctive style history.
The label continues its relationship with Historically Black Colleges and Universities through this release, following its earlier partnerships with Morehouse and Spelman Colleges. This time, the focus shifts from campus to coast, as Ralph Lauren brings collegiate design to the relaxed pace of Martha’s Vineyard. The result includes embroidered twill jackets, coats built for sea outings, washed sweaters in softened tones, and Maritime-influenced staples rooted in the style of Oak Bluffs residents across generations.
Ralph Lauren anchors the collection in the traditions of Oak Bluffs, where summer visits by Black families have created a self-sustaining cultural space. The town’s residents, many of whom have passed down their homes and stories, contribute to a visual language defined by ease, structure, and personal pride. The design team drew inspiration from this setting, creating clothes that echo both its location and its people.
The collection features specific references to Morehouse and Spelman, including collegiate motifs and graphic pieces that represent the Maroon Tiger and the Jaguar mascots. These details reinforce the bond between Oak Bluffs and the two institutions, as many alumni return to the island each year. The capsule allows them to wear their school ties beyond campus, layered into coastal life.
Ralph Lauren described the project in his own words: “This collection is about more than a charming coastal town; it’s a story of the American dream. 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.” His description points toward the emotional anchor of the project, shaped by belonging, connection, and lived experience.
With the collection now available, shoppers can find the pieces online, at select Polo Ralph Lauren stores, and directly on the campuses of Morehouse and Spelman Colleges. The brand builds on its narrative-driven design by rooting this release in a location with specific cultural weight. Every item reflects a visual dialogue between place, people, and purpose, without straying from the brand’s core identity.
