Ralph Lauren x Naiomi Glasses

In the world of fashion, inspiration knows no bounds. Polo Ralph Lauren, always seeking new avenues for expression, has embarked on an extraordinary collaboration with textile artist Naiomi Glasses. It was within the framework of the “Artist In Residence” program that a collection was born— the first of three designed by Glasses for the brand. This collaboration is not just a meeting of fashion and heritage, but a true tribute to tradition and craftsmanship. It’s a fusion of two worlds— the realm of fashion and the captivating history of the Navajo— coming together to tell a story of both past and present. Showcasing patterns passed down through generations, the Ralph Lauren X Naiomi Glasses partnership becomes a bridge between tradition and modernity, celebrating both cultural heritage and the refined style of the fashion house.

When heritage and tradition meet fashion

Textile artist and weaver with deep roots as a seventh-generation Diné (Navajo), Naiomi Glasses has brought her unique perspective and ancestral patterns to a variety of pieces adorned with traditional Navajo motifs. These iconic designs, such as four-direction crosses, spider woman crosses, and dragonflies, form the soul of the collection, expressing the profound heritage of the Navajo people.

Throughout the collection, motifs intertwine across various pieces, drawing inspiration from Navajo land. The highlights are jacquard fabrics and coats crafted from undyed wool. These unique materials emphasize natural hues, creating a striking contrast with jackets inspired by forests and coats that evoke ranch life. The collection also features a selection of pieces reflecting Glasses’ personal style. Classic Polo offerings—from sweaters and polo shirts to baseball caps—blend the collection’s inspirations with a modern sense of style and character.

“Heritage and tradition are at the heart of everything I love —things that embody both beauty and utility, that are effortless and personal, and are passed down from generation to generation,” said Ralph Lauren himself. “Reviving the most authentic expression of artisanal heritage means collaborating with those who have created and sustained these timeless traditions for centuries, and sharing their stories with the world . This is the opportunity that awaits us—and one that will be a treasured part of our company’s legacy.”

Ralph Lauren x Naiomi Glasses Collection – fashion with a message

In turn, the “Artist In Residence” program created by the brand is designed to directly highlight and collaborate with communities. Especially those that not only serve as inspiration but also nurture their own heritage, rather than simply being a starting point for inspiration. Glasses, while presenting the collection at the Polo Mansion in New York, admitted that she had some concerns at first. She wanted to make sure that both her story and the story of her people would be presented by the brand with due respect. However, her concerns quickly faded when she realized how the collection could draw attention to Native American artists. In this way, she brought the story of Navajo craftsmanship and design to a wider audience.

“Indigenous artists usually don’t get this kind of attention because few people pay attention to our communities,” the artist says. “But thanks to this collaboration, we can celebrate our artists and open many doors for others”. The collection is already available in the brand’s online store, and another Glasses collaboration with the brand is expected in 2024.

To preserve the story behind the collection, the lookbook not only features Glasses’ loved ones, but was also filmed on Navajo Nation land. The artist also curated a selection of handcrafted silver and turquoise jewelry. It was created by six artisan families from Navajo Nation, Hopi Pueblo, San Felipe Pueblo, and Zuni Pueblo. All of these pieces will be sold through Ralph Lauren’s channels. A percentage of the purchase price from the first Polo Ralph Lauren x Naiomi Glasses eyewear collection will go to the organization Change Labs. This organization “supports the growth of Navajo and Hopi small businesses owned by Indigenous entrepreneurs,” according to the fashion house’s press release.