Ralph Lauren, a name synonymous with quintessential American style, has launched its first Artist in Residence collaboration: the Polo Ralph Lauren x Naiomi Glasses Collection. This groundbreaking partnership signifies Ralph Lauren’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and diversity in fashion, showcasing the rich tapestry of American culture and heritage.
The collaboration is a triumphant fusion of the iconic fashion brand and the artistic vision of Naiomi Glasses, a seventh-generation Diné (Navajo) weaver. The collection, which will be released in three parts from now through the next year, is a celebration of the enduring legacy of Navajo weaving. This craft, a cornerstone of Navajo culture, has been preserved through generations in families like Naiomi’s.
In this collection, Ralph Lauren and Naiomi Glasses collaborate to celebrate Navajo traditions, crafts, and culture. The pieces are designed to honor the intricate and storied craft of Navajo weaving, which has been a source of inspiration for the brand.
The Artist in Residence program at Ralph Lauren is more than just a collaboration; it’s a celebration of heritage craft. It aims to foster partnerships with artisans, ensuring that traditional crafts not only survive but thrive. By bringing these artisans into collaboration with the Polo Ralph Lauren design teams, the program creates a unique synergy. The artisans’ unique skills and perspectives are combined with the brand’s established aesthetics, creating products that are both authentic and contemporary.
“When designing this collection, I imagined seeing my family and the people I love wear these pieces out in the world. To see the collection (that took almost two years) being presented to the world is a dream come true. This collection I designed with #PoloRalphLauren came to life on the very land that inspired my creativity, and sharing this moment alongside my family (mom, dad, brother, cousins, niece) and friends who feel like family, all while being beautifully captured by Ryan Redcorn and Daryn Sells and for everyone involved, I’m extremely thankful. I’m grateful this collection celebrates the love of the land, the love I have for my family and friends. Excited to share more, however I just wanted to share how special this campaign is to me,” shares Naiomi Glasses with the press.
Moreover, this initiative is not just about creating fashion; it’s about making an impact. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of the Artist in Residence collections will be allocated to organizations benefiting the artists’ communities. For the Polo Ralph Lauren x Naiomi Glasses Collection, this means support for Change Labs. This Native-led organization is dedicated to nurturing successful Navajo and Hopi small businesses, fostering economic growth and sustainability within these communities.
where is she going with that skateboard…. the level of cultural appropriation in this one…. BEYOND RALPH LAUREN! POLO haha
loving this! good one mr ralph lauren