orig. Ralph Lifshitz
born Oct. 14, 1939, New York, N.Y., U.S.
U.S. fashion designer.
Lauren grew up in the Bronx, in New York City. While working for a tie company, he was inspired to begin designing his own neckwear, and in 1967 he went into business for himself. From the inception of his brand, Lauren's creations were characterized by a moneyed style that evoked the look of English aristocracy, as adapted by the sporty, East-Coast American elite. His first menswear line in 1968 featured classic tweed suits, and his first womenswear line in 1971 continued his explorations of classic tailoring and good taste, but with a feminine twist. In 1972 Lauren debuted what would become his signature piece: the mesh sport shirt, available in a variety of colours and featuring his trademark emblem, the polo player. Throughout the following decades he explored new ideas
including Southwestern themes and safari looks
but maintained his central focus on classic American clothing. At the turn of the 21st century, the presence of both his shops and his brand name had become global.