Polo Ralph Lauren Unveils Limited-Edition Oak Bluffs Collection Honoring Black Cultural Heritage
Introducing Polo Ralph Lauren for Oak Bluffs, in association with Morehouse and Spelman Colleges.
In 2022, we celebrated the heritage and legacy of dressing at historically Black colleges and universities. Today, we follow that story to Oak Bluffs, a town on Martha’s Vineyard that has been a haven for Black communities for more than a century.
Ralph Lauren continues to spotlight Black history and cultural heritage with the launch of its latest capsule: Polo Ralph Lauren for Oak Bluffs. This limited-edition collection is a heartfelt tribute to the historically Black seaside town of Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard—an iconic summer retreat and cultural cornerstone for generations of African American families, HBCU alumni, and changemakers.
Building on the brand’s 2022 collaboration with Morehouse and Spelman Colleges, this new release deepens Ralph Lauren’s commitment to “Design with Intent”—a philosophy focused on honoring authentic expressions of heritage and community. The Oak Bluffs collection captures the spirit and history of the island through nautical-inspired classics, elevated with meaningful details and timeless silhouettes.
Standout pieces include:
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Men’s and women’s twill jackets featuring embroidered imagery of Martha’s Vineyard’s historic landmarks and scenic coastlines.
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Classic sport caps in crisp hues of white, red, and navy.
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A striking maroon-and-white varsity jacket adorned with Morehouse’s iconic Maroon Tiger.
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A soft patchwork cardigan in ivory and baby blue showcasing Spelman College’s beloved jaguar mascot.
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Additional touches like collegiate-style sun-faded knits, retro baseball caps, and refined layering staples that nod to Black collegiate excellence and East Coast coastal living.
The capsule was co-created with alumni from Morehouse and Spelman, infusing the designs with a deep sense of pride, purpose, and authenticity—celebrating not only Oak Bluffs, but also the larger legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
“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 of Ralph Lauren Corporation. “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.”
To bring the collection to life, Ralph Lauren tapped director, writer, and producer Cole Brown, who captured the essence of Oak Bluffs through a new campaign and short documentary film titled “A Portrait of the American Dream: Oak Bluffs.” Filmed on location, the project features personal stories, archival images, and breathtaking visuals that reflect the island’s enduring impact. The film will premiere at the 2025 Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival this August.
Availability
The Polo Ralph Lauren for Oak Bluffs Collection officially launches Thursday, July 24, and will be available worldwide at RalphLauren.com, in select Ralph Lauren flagship stores, and through exclusive retail partners.
This drop is more than fashion—it’s a celebration of legacy, identity, and the spaces that have shaped generations.
