In celebration of Fifty Years of Fashion we honor a Bronx Native and Living Iconic Legend. Award Honoree and American Fashion Designer Ralph Lauren is a philanthropist and self-made entrepreneur celebrating 50 plus years in the industry. 
Ralph Lauren has built a long-standing global multibillion-dollar empire who has generously given from his heart throughout a lifetime empowering many through the art of fashion.  The youngest of four siblings, a graduate of DeWitt Clinton High School went on to Baruch College, dropping out after two years and then serving two years in the U.S.  Army before pursuing his creative interests, ultimately growing his brand. 

Inspired by his love of sports his first line of menswear launched in 1968 under the name Polo.  Launching out of a small showroom in the Empire State building where Ralph Lauren made deliveries to stores himself never once giving up on his dream. 
In 1969, Bloomingdale’s sold the exclusive men’s line making it the first time they gave a designer control of their own in-store boutique.  In 1971 Ralph Lauren launched a line of tailored shirts for women which introduced the iconic Polo Player emblem which has become a staple of the line launching in various colors becoming the emblematic logo of the preppy style for both men as well as women. 
Many celebrities around the world have worn the acclaimed shirt in addition to a lifetime of generations. 

Not only a Designer, Ralph Lauren’s philanthropic nature has also helped many organizations helping families dealing with cancer, he co-founded the Ninja Hyde Center for Breast Cancer Research as well as the Pink Pony Campaign just to name a few, a national initiative raising awareness for cancer prevention, screening and treatment for underserved communities.

Ralph Lauren is also the first American Fashion Designer to be royally recognized with the title of Honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for his work within the fashion trade and philanthropy throughout the world.   

Written Flora Montes, Runway Chef Bronx

Sources/Credit: Wikipedia, www.forbes.com, https://art8amby.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/poloralphlauren6.jpg, Vogue,

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