Five Things You Might Not Know About Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren is a fashion designer and businessman known for his eponymous brand and its iconic Polo logo. While many people are familiar with Ralph Lauren’s clothing and accessories, there are a few things you may not know about the man behind the brand.

Five Things You Might Not Know About Ralph Lauren

1. Ralph Lauren was born Ralph Lifshitz in The Bronx, New York City, in 1939. He changed his last name to Lauren when he was 16 years old because he felt that Lifshitz was too Jewish-sounding.
2. Ralph Lauren began his career as a clerk at Brooks Brothers, a men’s clothing store. He worked there for a few years before starting his own business selling ties.
3. In addition to clothing and accessories, Ralph Lauren has also designed home furnishings and fragrances. His home collection includes bedding, furniture, and other items, while his fragrances include Polo, Ralph Lauren Romance, and Lauren by Ralph Lauren.
4. Ralph Lauren’s first fashion line was a collection of men’s ties, which he started selling under the brand name Polo in 1967. The collection was a success, and it eventually led to the launch of the Ralph Lauren Corporation in 1969.
5. Ralph Lauren has been recognized for his contributions to the fashion industry. In 1996, he was inducted into the Fashion Institute of Technology’s Hall of Fame, and in 2007, he was awarded the CFDA’s Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2010, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.