Lauren Ralph Lauren Logo

The history of the Ralph Lauren brand and its founder, Ralph Lauren, are deeply intertwined with the story of Lauren Ralph Lauren. To understand the origins of this line, it’s important to start at the beginning of Ralph Lauren’s journey.

Born Ralph Lifshitz in the Bronx, New York, in 1939, Ralph was the son of Jewish immigrants from Belarus. He developed an early interest in style and fashion, which was influenced by Hollywood films and the high society of the United States.

Ralph began his fashion career 1967 as a tie salesman at Brooks Brothers. He soon convinced the manufacturer, Beau Brummell, to let him create his collection of ties under the Polo name. This collection, featuring wide ties with vibrant colors and bold patterns, marked the beginning of his brand.

In 1968, Ralph launched his first full menswear collection and established Polo Fashions, Inc. His designs, inspired by elite country lifestyles and sports, embodied classic American elegance.

As the men’s line gained popularity, the business expanded. The first Polo store opened on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills in 1971, the same year the brand launched its first women’s collection.

In 1972, Ralph introduced the now-iconic polo player emblem, which has since become one of the most recognizable logos in the fashion industry.

The brand continued to grow throughout the 1970s and 1980s. It introduced home products, accessories, and fragrances while expanding internationally into markets across Asia and Europe.

In 1997, the corporation went public on the New York Stock Exchange, significantly increasing its capital and further fueling its expansion. Around this time, the Lauren Ralph Lauren line was created as a more accessible version of the main collection, designed to reach a broader market.

This line offered women’s clothing, accessories, and shoes that reflected the classic American style synonymous with the company but at more affordable prices. It quickly gained popularity among customers who wanted the signature aesthetic without the high price tag.

In the early 2000s, the line expanded into furniture and home textiles, allowing the brand to reach new markets and establish a presence in fashion and interior design.

In 2003, the corporation acquired the manufacturing and distribution rights for the collection from Jones Apparel Group, giving it complete control over the brand’s growth.

The line continued to evolve throughout the 2000s and 2010s, introducing new collections that reflected current fashion trends while maintaining its commitment to classic American style.

In 2010, the brand launched a bridal line, offering elegant and sophisticated wedding gowns at more accessible prices than the main collection.

By 2013, the line celebrated its 15th anniversary and had become an essential part of the corporation, contributing significantly to its overall revenue.

Although Ralph stepped down as CEO in 2015, he remained executive chairman and chief creative officer. The collection continued its operations largely unaffected by the leadership change.

By 2018, the brand had expanded its digital presence by improving its online store and increasing its social media activity, which helped attract a younger audience and adapt to changing consumer preferences.

Despite economic challenges in 2020, the line continued to innovate, adjusting its collections to meet the needs of its customers and the times. The brand focused on creating more practical and comfortable clothing without compromising its signature style.

In 2021 and 2022, the company further embraced digital transformation, investing in omnichannel commerce, enhancing its online presence, and experimenting with virtual fashion shows.

As of 2023, the line remains a vital part of the empire, offering an accessible version of classic American fashion. The brand continues to evolve while staying true to its core values, adapting to changing consumer preferences and fashion trends.

This collection tells the story of a brand that has successfully broadened its reach while maintaining its identity and core principles. Founded in the late 1990s, the line symbolizes accessible luxury and timeless American design.