Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren, born October 14, 1939, is an American fashion designer, most known for his Polo Ralph Lauren clothing label. In 1967, he opened a necktie store selling his uniquely designed ties, under the trademark Polo. In the ensuing years Polo evolved into a full menswear brand, earning the brand the COTY Award in 1970. The now iconic short-sleeved polo shirt was first released in 1972. The brand has become associated with depicting a sweeping picture of American life. In 2010, French President Nicolas Sarkozy honored Ralph Lauren with the Chevalier de la Legion d'honneur. Ralph Lauren is the only designer to receive the CFDA's four highest honors: Womenswear Designer of the Year, Menswear Designer of the Year, Retailer of the Year, and Lifetime Achievement.

Ralph Lauren was published by Rizzoli in October 2007. This monograph features intimate views into Lauren's life and his designs.

Ralph Lauren is featured in Edition: Rizzoli: Fashion

Ralph & Ricky: 1976, Amagansett, NY. Image by Barbara Walz
Bedford, NY 2004. Image by Gilles de Chabaneix
"The Look of Gatsby" Photo by Mellon Tytell of Donna Miller & Bob Clement c. 1972 NYC
sketches by RL
sketches by RL