We’re barely two weeks into 2021 and already the fashion collabs are flying in thick and fast. The latest is a joint project from Ralph Lauren and Hong Kong based label CLOT. Released just in time for Chinese New Year (it’s the Year of the Ox, in case you were wondering), the collection draws on the eastern and western influences of the two designers, paying homage to both American and Chinese heritage, with a nostalgic twist.
Announced today and released at the end of the month, the CLOT x Ralph Lauren campaign, shot by Kenneth Cappello, pays homage to 80s and 90s Polo Heritage ads, reimagining the Ralph Lauren world through a different lens and perspective. And some of the most iconic styles from past decades receive an updated twist, merging the identities of both CLOT and Ralph Lauren. The classic polo, oxford, bayport windbreaker and cambray shirts are reworked and remixed with frog button detail, while varsity jackets are reimagined with royal silk linings and dragon chest patches. There are more casual pieces too, including enough tie-dye sweatshirts to see you through lockdown four, five, six and probably seven.
Since beginning its life back in 2003, CLOT, founded by Edison Chen and Kevin Poon, has expanded through a number of collabs, including Nike and Stüssy, and now they’re adding American heritage brand Ralph Lauren to the fold. “I have been wearing Polo since I was about 10 years old and kind of got introduced to fashion via my father with Polo; wearing Polos made me feel mature and special,” says Edison. “Being able to dig deep into the brands DNA and adding our touch to it has been a really fruitful and fulfilling experience.”
The collection will be available starting January 27 in JUICE locations worldwide, juicestore.com, select Dover Street Market stores, the POLO app, select Ralph Lauren locations worldwide, and ralphlauren.com.