Ralph Lauren, born Ralph Lifshitz in 1939, is widely celebrated as one of the world's premier fashion designers and the mastermind behind one of the globe's most successful and iconic brands. With iterative designs defining the signature preppy look and ushering in an era of aspirational American classics, Ralph Lauren has been nothing short of instrumental in shaping the fashion industry as we know it.
Raised in the Bronx, New York, Lauren's craft was honed not at a prestigious design school but on the ground in the world of men's neckties. His breakthrough came in 1967 with the introduction of his wide, dramatically designed neckwear known as 'Polo'. The 'Polo' necktie marked the beginning of a sensational legacy, a legacy that dared to challenge the constraints of contemporary practicality, and in doing so, reimagined modern luxury fashion.
In 1971, he once again lit a path for others to follow when he launched a line of tailored shirts for women. The trailblazing didn't stop there; Ralph Lauren was the first designer to open a store that sold both men's and women's clothing, and in 1972, he unveiled the now-iconic Polo player logo, embroidered onto the cuff of the women's shirt. This is a testament to Ralph Lauren's undeniable genius, a genius that prolifically crossed and blurred gender lines in fashion.
More than a designer, Ralph Lauren has proven himself to be a lifestyle architect who has had a long-standing influence on the way people dress and the way fashion is advertised and celebrated. He was innovative in his brand's approach to advertising – producing ads portraying models in extravagant, elite settings – essentially selling not just clothing, but an appealing lifestyle.
Throughout his illustrious six-decade career, Lauren's empowering vision has been recognized globally. His designs have been worn by countless celebrities, his label has sponsored prestigious events such as Wimbledon, and he has been bestowed with numerous awards, including the CFDA’s Lifetime Achievement award.
However, Ralph Lauren’s legacy extends beyond fashion. A generous philanthropist, he has donated millions towards causes such as cancer research and education, further cementing his influence both within and beyond the fashion world.
Despite Ralph Lauren's indisputable influence and remarkable success, his vision has remained remarkably consistent throughout the years, rooted always in offering style that epitomizes timeless elegance, refined sophistication and classic American design. His creation is often deemed as more than just a brand; it is an embodiment of an aspirational lifestyle, a beacon of sartorial elegance, and a testament to garment storytelling. Ralph Lauren’s influence in fashion is as broad as it is deep, and his reign continues to be a true testament to the power of design, diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit.