The Ralph Lauren empire — replete with its trademark polo shirts, stunning gowns, tailored suits, cashmere sweaters, luxurious bed sheets, rich fragrances, and so much more — is a true pioneering story of an American sportswear brand successfully turned into a global lifestyle behemoth. Founded by Ralph Lifshitz, who started selling his own Polo necktie designs in 1967, the visionary entrepreneur launched his debut menswear collection a year later, merging classic American style with European refinement, tailoring and sensibility. His signature horse-and-rider emblem appeared in 1970; and the next year, his womenswear line was unveiled. Ralph Lauren’s iconic status was solidified early, when he was appointed the men’s wardrobe supplier for the film adaptation of the American classic, “The Great Gatsby.” Named one of the world’s most influential people by Time magazine in 2006, Lauren has held a four-decade-long dominating position in the premium lifestyle world. Redefining the essence of American style while elevating it to new heights of luxury, divisions in apparel include the Black Label for men, offering precision tailoring paired with bold, sophisticated sportswear; Polo Ralph Lauren for men, combining iconic preppy style with a cool, urban sensibility; Blue Label for women, fusing bohemian elegance and modern, eclectic edge; and the RRL collection for men and women, presenting authentic, vintage-inspired denim.