Few names in fashion are as iconic as Ralph Lauren. Born Ralph Lifshitz in 1939 in New York, the designer transformed his vision of timeless American elegance into a global empire. From humble beginnings selling ties, Lauren built a brand that now encompasses clothing, accessories, home furnishings, and fragrances.

Humble Beginnings

Ralph Lauren's journey began in 1967 when he launched Polo Fashions with a line of men's ties. Unlike the narrow styles popular at the time, Lauren introduced wide, colorful ties that reflected his unique perspective on style. This signature look quickly gained attention from major retailers like Bloomingdale's.

The brand's popularity soared with the introduction of the legendary Polo shirt in 1972, featuring the now-iconic polo player logo. This single garment came to represent the core of Lauren's design philosophy: a sophisticated yet relaxed vision of the American lifestyle.

A Fashion Empire Expands

During the 1980s, Ralph Lauren expanded into womenswear, home furnishings, and fragrances. Store locations grew from Madison Avenue to global boutiques, earning praise for their comforting clubhouse aesthetic. The brand became known for capturing multiple facets of American heritage - from Western imagery to New England prep.

Cultural Impact

Beyond fashion, Ralph Lauren shaped cultural perspectives. Costume designs for films like The Great Gatsby