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Ralph Lauren: How I Built a Fashion Empire

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This episode of Game Changers spotlights the career of fashion designer Ralph Lauren.

Explore his meteoric rise, his personal and professional setbacks, as well as his successes as an ambassador for America.

How did Ralph Lauren’s introduction of the polo shirt impact the fashion industry, and why was it such a significant move for his brand?

Ralph Lauren: How I Built a Fashion Empire

Ralph Lauren is a name that has become synonymous with luxury, elegance, and timeless style. The man behind the brand was born Ralph Lifshitz, in the Bronx, New York City, in 1939. He grew up in a working-class family and had a keen interest in fashion and design from a young age.

After graduating from high school, Ralph attended Baruch College, but he dropped out after two years to take a job as a salesman at Brooks Brothers. He then joined the U.S. Army for two years and worked as a clerk. After his military service, Ralph returned to the fashion industry and landed a job as a salesman at a necktie company.

In 1967, Ralph Lauren had a vision to create a line of men’s ties that reflected his personal style and taste. He wanted to create a brand that stood for a refined, luxurious lifestyle. He started his business with a $50,000 loan and called it “Polo,” a nod to his love of equestrian sports. His first collection of men’s ties was a huge success, and he quickly expanded to include a full line of men’s clothing.

But it was Ralph’s introduction of the polo shirt that truly catapulted his brand to the forefront of 1970s fashion. The shirt was inspired by the traditional polo shirt worn by elite athletes and was made from high-quality fabrics with a comfortable fit. The polo shirt became a staple of the preppy, Ivy League style that was popular at the time.

Over the years, Ralph Lauren continued to expand his brand by adding new lines of clothing, accessories, and home furnishings. He created distinct sub-brands such as Ralph Lauren Collection, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Lauren Ralph Lauren. He also launched Ralph Lauren Home, which includes bedding, towels, and home décor.

Ralph Lauren’s designs have always been known for their timeless elegance, classic style, and attention to detail. He has become a master of the art of combining vintage and modern elements to create memorable looks that are both timeless and contemporary.

Ralph Lauren has earned numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur in 2016, the highest honor awarded by the French government. He has also been inducted into the Fashion Hall of Fame and was awarded the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Today, Ralph Lauren is a global fashion empire with stores in more than 100 countries. The brand’s success is a tribute to Ralph’s vision, creativity, and commitment to excellence. Ralph has built a fashion empire that embodies the American spirit of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. His brand will continue to inspire and influence the world of fashion for generations to come.