If your'e a Millenial or Gen Z who grew up in the urban streetwear scene then you're probably familiar with Rugby by Ralph Lauren. A sub-division under the Polo Ralph Lauren company umbrella.
The brands aesthetic mixed classic prep with a collegiate athletic twist. The line included rugby shirts, chinos, cargo pants, outerwear and accessories. If Harry Potter had a real life sponsor Rugby would be it.
The first Rugby store debuted October 23, 2004 at 342 Newbury Street in Boston, MA.
This brand was created to connect with younger customers and bridge the gap between the youthful and the traditional aspects of style and fashion. In my opinion that is exactly what they accomplished, but they should have never stopped. When Rugby camed out i was around 8 years old. by the time I was in middle school I was a Rugby addict! The designs were so much more fun than traditional polos and the quality was amazing especially considering the price point. Rugby was a cheaper alternative to Polo, but better in quality compared to other budget brands under the Polo umbrella like Chaps and Polo Jeans Co.
Rugby was discontinued in 2013 because it wasnt meeting sales goals. Because of its questionable customer base of young adults and college student execs were not convinced Rugby had what it took and decided to shut it down to focus on scaling its other brands. This devasted me as a sophomore in high school. I still have a few of those old Rugbys, including a few of my friends Rugby's too. What's it gonna take to bring Rugby back? Doesnt have to be perminant but even a small capsule with a few items for old times sake would be amazing. Polo if your listening (99.99% chance your not) let's get it done.
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