In 2020, as the Black Lives Matter movement swept across America, Ralph Lauren made a pledge to act on racial equity. The historic fashion brand donated $2 million to a dozen historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) the following year.
In keeping with this, the brand announced on Tuesday, the launch of the Polo Ralph Lauren collection exclusively for Morehouse and Spelman colleges, a limited-edition capsule collection inspired by the heritage and traditions of historically Black colleges and universities.
The new pieces have a vintage feel, drawing heavily on the 1920s to 1950s style worn by students at historically black colleges. The collection, with garments conceptualized and designed by Morehouse and Spelman alumni, revives the tweed blazer look, with skirts and pants paired with plaid socks.
The vintage knit sweaters evoke both the era and the design philosophy of Ralph Lauren. Ralph Lauren, executive chairman and chief creative officer of the company, states:
“It’s so much more than a portrayal of a collegiate design sensibility. It’s about sharing a more complete and authentic portrait of American style and of the American dream — ensuring stories of Black life and experiences are embedded in the inspiration and aspiration of our brand.”
In addition to the collection, Ralph Lauren is choosing an all-black cast for its campaign, from the photographer to the models to the director of photography and the director. The looks are illustrated in a short film, A Portrait of the American Dream, which will be released on March 28, one day before the collections are released.
The collection will be available for exclusive presale to Morehouse and Spelman students, faculty and alumni on March 28, and will then open to the public on March 29. Be on time!
See the first pictures of the collection below:
#Peace.Love.RalphLauren
