Forget about Dorothy's ruby red slippers! We want Lexus' ruby red rims instead. Lexus is giving a nod to the 'Wizard of Oz' with the "Ruby Red Rims" RX. The special concept vehicle, recently unveiled at W Magazine's 50th anniversary party in New York, was in collaboration with fashion designer Harris Reed.
Lexus says the SUV, based on the newly redesigned all-new 2023 RX, is a modern interpretation of one of the most celebrated films of all time. The automaker poses the question of "What if"... as in what if Dorothy had taken the road less traveled instead of following the yellow brick road. Lexus says it's designed to inspire drivers to veer off the beaten path.
"As a gender fluid designer, I've always been fueled and inspired by choosing the path less traveled," said Harris Reed. "With the bold new design of the Lexus RX and the cinematic Hollywood classic, 'The Wizard of Oz,' I took inspiration from the literal interpretation of choosing your own path and pursuing a new journey down the red brick road, with a nod to the film's iconic ruby slippers and my own designs."
In creating the "Ruby Red Rims," Reed says he was inspired by two of the signature hats in his Spring '23 collection. The backs of the rims are made of solid aluminum and feature gloss-sealed glitter. In the center sits the ruby core and Lexus logo, embedded in a polished ruby red color, and powered by LED lights that bring them to life. Fins reveal the ruby red color from different angles.
"With 'The Wizard of Oz' as a foundation for our all-new RX launch spot, we were excited about the possibilities of connecting our wheels to Dorothy's ruby red slippers. The final design and thoughtful interpretation of the 'Ruby Red Rims' far exceeded our expectations," said Vinay Shahani, vice president, Lexus marketing. "We are grateful for the incomparable, trailblazing designer, Harris Reed, who helped us reimagine the ruby slipper in the most striking way for W's milestone 50th celebration."
The "Ruby Red Rims" RX will make additional appearances throughout the country later this year and next.
Photo Credit: Lexus.