Polo Ralph Lauren is embarking on a new sartorial journey, trading the classic American backdrop for the electrifying, complex landscape of Tokyo in its latest “Polo Originals & Friends” campaign. More than just a change of scenery, this project is a vibrant cultural dialogue, exploring how the brand’s enduring codes are reinterpreted by a new generation of creatives in one of the world’s most dynamic fashion capitals.
Shot entirely on location, the campaign is a stunning visual meditation on the contrasts that define both the city and the Polo brand itself: tradition versus invention, energy alongside stillness, and global heritage filtered through deeply personal style.
Meet the Tokyo Originals
The heart of this campaign lies in its cast—a brilliant lineup of Tokyo-based tastemakers whose individual styles celebrate both American distinctiveness and Japanese sophistication. These “friends” showcase how the classic Polo vision is worn, lived, and made new every day.
The distinguished cast includes:
- Shuhei Nishiguchi, Menswear Author and Fashion Director, who explores the modern side of preserving classic style.
- Hiroki Koda, a Custom Suit Maker, who makes sartorial heritage look effortlessly contemporary.
- Aaron Chang, Fashion Illustrator and purveyor of the “Ivy Boys” aesthetic, bringing collegiate codes into the modern mix.
- Andrew Lin, Actor, whose Western-inspired looks reflect his exploration of emotion and authenticity.
- James Harvey-Kelly, Photographer, who captures the profound, human element in timeless aesthetics.
Each personality offers a unique lens, proving that Polo’s heritage is not bound by geography, but thrives through individual expression.
A Dialogue of Style and Craftsmanship
What makes this campaign so compelling is the rich interplay between Polo’s foundational elements—think timeless tailoring, heritage textiles, and the unmistakable Polo Pony—and the highly sophisticated, craft-centric culture of Tokyo.
We see a Donegal Tweed Balmacaan Coat styled with modern ease on a busy street; a classic Oxford shirt layered with the precision of Japanese tailoring; and the Big Chino worn with a blend of ’90s nostalgia and present-day cool. These aren’t just outfits; they are conversations.
As suit maker Hiroki Koda puts it, “By wearing suits like those worn by my father or grandfather… I can make them look modern as a 30-year-old. That’s what I want to express.”
The City as a Character
Tokyo itself serves as the perfect canvas. It is a city of layered identity where glass skyscrapers meet centuries-old shrines, and avant-garde experimentation walks alongside meticulous preservation. The campaign captures this dual nature, showing how Polo’s pieces move seamlessly through this environment, embodying a sense of craft that effortlessly bridges continents.
To fully immerse yourself in their stories and their personal interpretations of the Polo vision, be sure to check out the accompanying short films on Ralph Lauren’s channels.
Dive into the contrasts, celebrate the craftsmanship, and discover how Polo Ralph Lauren is truly Made To Be Worn—around the world.
