Ralph Lauren x Naiomi Glasses

There are no boundaries for inspiration in the fashion world. Polo Ralph Lauren, always looking for new ways to express itself has entered into an unusual collaboration with textile artist Naiomi Glasses. It was within the framework of the “Artist In Residence” program that the collection was born, being the first of three designed by Glasses for the brand. This collaboration is not only a meeting of fashion and heritage, but a true tribute to tradition and craftsmanship. It is the meeting of two worlds – the world of fashion with the fascinating history of the Navajo, which together tell the story of both the past and the present. Presenting patterns passed down through generations, the collaboration Ralph Lauren X Naiomi Glasses becomes a bridge between tradition and modernity, while celebrating both the cultural heritage and the sophisticated style of the fashion house.

When heritage and tradition meet fashion

A textile artist and weaver with deep roots in the seventh generation of Diné (Navajo), Naiomi Glasses has brought her unique perspective and patterns, inherited from her ancestors, to a variety of pieces decorated with traditional Navajo motifs. These iconic designs, such as Four-way crosses, crosses of a woman spider, or dragonflies, are the soul of the collection, expressing the deep heritage of the Navajo Nation.

Throughout the collection, motifs weave in a variety of elements, drawing inspiration from the Navajo land. The highlights become Jaquard fabrics and coats made of undyed wool. These unique materials highlight natural colors, providing a contrast to jackets, forest-inspired and coats evocative of the ranch lifestyle. The collection also includes a selection of pieces that reflect Glasses’ personal style. Polo’s classic offerings – from sweaters and polo shirts to baseball caps – combine the collection’s inspiration with modern style and character.

“Heritage and tradition are at the center of everything I love. – things that encompass both beauty and utility, that are unforced and personal and are passed down from generation to generation.” – These are the words of Ralph Lauren himself. “Reviving the most authentic expression of craft heritage means working with those who have created and sustained these timeless traditions over the centuries, and sharing their stories with the world . This is an opportunity that awaits us – and one that will be a valuable part of our company’s legacy.”

Ralph Lauren x Naiomi Glasses collection-fashion with a message

In turn, the program itself “Artist In Residence”. created by the brand aims to directly highlight and work with communities. And especially ones that not only provide inspiration, but also nurture their heritage, rather than just being a starting point for inspiration. Glasses, presenting the collection at the Polo Mansion in New York, confessed that she had some concerns at first. She wanted to make sure that both her history and the history of her people would be portrayed with due respect by the brand. But her concerns quickly disappeared when she realized how the collection could bring attention to Native American artists. And so she brought the history of Navajo craftsmanship and design to a wider audience.

“Indigenous artists don’t usually get that kind of attention because not many people pay attention to our communities,” – states the artist. “But Through this collaboration, we can celebrate our artists and open many doors for others.”. The collection is now available at the brand’s online store, and the next Glasses duo with the brand can be expected in 2024.

To capture the history of the collection, the lookbook not only features Glasses’ loved ones, but was filmed on Navajo Nation land. The artist has also curated a selection of handmade silver and turquoise jewelry. It was created by six artisan families from the Navajo Nation, Hopi Pueblo, San Felipe Pueblo and Zuni Pueblo. All of these products will be sold through Ralph Lauren channels. A percentage of the purchase price from the sale of the first Polo Ralph Lauren x Naiomi Glasses collection will go to the organization Change Labs. The organization ” supports the development of Navajo and Hopi small businesses run by indigenous peoples” – according to a press release from the fashion house.