Ralph Lauren, a widely known fashion designer, has created a massive variety of clothing lines for men, women, and children. Many of us wonder who the man behind the label really is. Born on October 14, 1939 in the city of Bronx, New York, he was given the name Ralph R. Lifshitz. He grew up sharing a household with three of his older brothers. When Ralph’s brother Jerry changed his last name to Lauren, Ralph did the same, discarding the Lifshitz name in favor of Lauren.
He was raised in a middle-class Jewish home by his mother and artistic father.
Studying hard in school, he one day wished to create a fashion line that would be massively known worldwide. Little did he know his wish would soon be granted. In his younger days, Ralph Lauren went to Salanter Academy Jewish Day School and later MTA and the DeWitt Clinton High School. Many would think that he had attended fashion school, but he actually studied business at City College in Manhattan.
He eventually dropped out. Between school and fashion designing, he had served in the U. S. army in 1962.
Fashion designing was something that he really loved so he eventually stopped in 1964 serving for only two years. One of his best known fashion lines was Polo. He has come a long way. The brand, Polo Ralph Lauren, was first launched in 1967 when Lauren received a $50,000 loan and started a line of men’s ties. Not only was Polo Ralph Lauren aiming as for a clothing brand, but has produced other products such as sheets, towels, furniture, and fragrances.
Fragrances were manufactured under license by L’Oreal. The brand has participated in conflict with U. S. Polo Association over the right to use the horseman logo. Ralph Lauren Polo won the case for the reason that the logo was too similar and might cause ‘customer confusion. ’ Ralph Lauren has come a long way obtaining the figure he is today. His products are favored and loved by men, women, and children. It was widely known in 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s and still is to this day. He continues to live today being the age of 71. Even at the old age he is at, he is a huge role model and inspiration to many including myself. He stretches a lifestyle image of sophistication, class and taste.