Saks Fifth Avenue Channels Coastal Glamour in New Collaboration with Rhode Island Commerce
Source: Rhode Island Commerce
Reported By: Matthew Kennedy
In a creative union of fashion and destination marketing, Saks Fifth Avenue and Rhode Island Commerce have launched a limited-edition retail experience spotlighting the timeless appeal of the Ocean State. Through a series of artfully curated window and in-store displays at Saks locations across the country, the collaboration brings the architectural beauty, nautical heritage, and cultural richness of Rhode Island to life for a national audience of luxury shoppers.
The Ocean State Takes Over Fifth Avenue
At the center of the initiative is Saks Fifth Avenue’s iconic New York City flagship, where the windows lining Fifth Avenue now serve as portals to Rhode Island’s most celebrated locales. Drawing on imagery of Gilded Age grandeur, coastal serenity, and colonial architecture, the displays reference landmarks from Providence’s cobblestone corridors to Newport’s famed seaside mansions. The visual storytelling is transportive—and intentionally so.
“Partnering with Saks Fifth Avenue allows us to showcase the beauty and sophistication of Rhode Island to everyone who passes by their iconic windows every day. This collaboration not only highlights our state’s stunning landscapes and rich culture, but it also helps drive tourism, which plays an important role in strengthening Rhode Island’s economy.”
Liz Tanner, Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce
The New York windows are on display through July 2, strategically timed to capture peak summer foot traffic and leisure travel planning.
Extending the Experience Across the Country
Beyond New York, the campaign expands into key Saks Fifth Avenue locations in Atlanta, Washington, D.C., Chicago, and Los Angeles. These select stores feature in-store activations running from July 1 through July 30, designed to immerse guests in Rhode Island’s coastal lifestyle through expert product curation and scenic design elements.
Shoppers can expect a blend of high-end merchandise, editorial-style presentation, and destination-specific inspiration. From nautical textures and resort-ready silhouettes to nods to Newport’s yachting scene and Providence’s creative undercurrent, the displays reflect the elevated ease and elegance that Rhode Island embodies.
A Destination with Style—and Staying Power
Rhode Island has long held a coveted spot on the itineraries of discerning travelers. Its cultural influence spans centuries—from the colonial roots of Providence’s East Side to the Belle Époque drama of Newport’s Cliff Walk estates. With this partnership, the state leverages Saks Fifth Avenue’s powerful platform to further establish itself as both a travel destination and a lifestyle brand.
It’s more than a nod to heritage. It’s a modern-day reintroduction.
The collaboration also underscores the evolving role of tourism boards in shaping national perception—not only through traditional advertising, but by engaging audiences where they shop, dress, and experience luxury in everyday life.
A Seamless Path from Inspiration to Exploration
The initiative goes beyond visual storytelling. Consumers can shop a curated collection of Rhode Island-inspired fashion and lifestyle items online at saks.com/rhodeisland, bridging the gap between destination dreaming and personal styling.
The broader campaign, supported by Rhode Island Commerce’s tourism division, aligns with the organization’s mission to boost economic opportunity through storytelling, design, and strategic partnerships. With Saks Fifth Avenue as its latest stage, the Ocean State is now positioned to reach both seasoned travelers and style-conscious consumers in a way that feels authentic, aspirational, and refreshingly elegant.