Kakobuy Finds Spreadsheet
From humble beginnings to a global fashion empire, Ralph Lauren's story is a testament to the power of vision, creativity, and unwavering dedication to style.
Ralph Lifshitz, who later changed his surname to Lauren, was born in 1939 in New York City. Growing up in the Bronx, the young entrepreneur showed an early fascination with fashion, often sketching clothing designs during high school. His first breakthrough came while working as a tie salesman at Beau Brummell, where his innovative "Polo" tie designs—wider and more colorful than traditional options—caught the industry’s attention.
In 1967, Lauren founded Polo Ralph Lauren with a $50,000 loan, introducing menswear that redefined American style. The brand’s 1971 debut of the iconic Polo shirt—featuring the now-famed embroidered pony logo—revolutionized casual luxury. With no formal design training, Lauren drew inspiration from his love for vintage clothing, classic Hollywood glamour, and the sophisticated aesthetics of English aristocracy.
"I’m not doing fashion. I’m doing something that’s totally personal—I live it." —Ralph Lauren
By the 1980s, Lauren expanded beyond clothing, becoming a pioneer of lifestyle branding. The brand introduced fragrances (1978), home collections (1983), and even debuted its first restaurant (2018). The 1997 IPO made fashion history, while the company’s flagship stores—such as the Rhinelander Mansion on Madison Avenue—became symbols of aspirational living. Today, Ralph Lauren Corporation operates across all major continents with over 25 subsidiary brands spanning from luxury Purple Label to accessible Denim & Supply.
Lauren’s influence transcends apparel. His costuming for The Great Gatsby
More than a brand, Ralph Lauren represents the American Dream woven into fabric—a celebration of individualism, quality, and the art of living beautifully.