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Fashion Editor Explains: Why Ralph Lauren Never Goes Out of Style
The revival of retro trends has brought back more than just low-rise jeans and vintage sneakers—it has also propelled the Ralph Lauren Polo shirt to the top of fashion’s hot list. This seemingly simple piece carries layers of meaning: American culture, cinematic moments, aristocratic sports, and celebrity appeal. How did this emblem of Ralph Lauren’s preppy yet luxurious aesthetic return to the spotlight in 2025?
Ralph Lauren’s American Dream
Every fashion legend starts with a dream. Born in the Bronx to a Jewish immigrant family, Ralph Lauren began his career selling ties at Brooks Brothers. Refusing to conform to the slim, plain ties of the 60s, he designed bold, wide, colorful ties that eventually led him to launch his own label in 1967. His vision combined the refinement of high society with the optimism of the American dream—forever shaping the DNA of his brand.
The Polo Shirt: A Cultural Code
Though Lacoste invented the polo shirt, it was Ralph Lauren who elevated it into a global icon. In 1972, he introduced 24 colors of Polo shirts, making it a wardrobe essential across all ages and lifestyles. From Ivy League campuses to Manhattan’s elite clubs, the Polo Ralph Lauren shirt became a way of life. Today, it has even been immortalized in MoMA, solidifying its place in fashion history.
From The Great Gatsby to Annie Hall: Ralph Lauren and Cinema
Ralph Lauren’s influence extended to Hollywood. In 1974, he dressed Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby, capturing the character’s opulent elegance. Later, in Annie Hall, he redefined women’s fashion with Diane Keaton’s gender-fluid ties and vests. These cinematic moments cemented Ralph Lauren not only as a brand, but as an enduring cultural symbol.
Decoding the Lines: Polo Ralph Lauren vs. Ralph Lauren
People often confuse Ralph Lauren with Polo Ralph Lauren, but the distinction is clear:
・Ralph Lauren: Refers to the entire fashion empire, from the haute Purple Label to the more approachable Lauren Ralph Lauren.
・Polo Ralph Lauren: The youthful, preppy line rooted in Ivy League style and American casual wear. Its accessible pricing and versatile designs have made it more recognizable than the main line.
Other icons include:
・Polo Bear: Once a birthday gift turned cult sensation in the 90s, now a must-have motif.
・Purple Label: The pinnacle of Ralph Lauren menswear, crafted in Italy with couture-level tailoring—beloved by celebrities and red-carpet regulars.
From Rachel Green to Modern Workwear
In Friends, Rachel Green’s Ralph Lauren outfits defined 90s office chic. In 2019, the brand honored her style with a capsule collection, proving its relevance across decades. Today, whether it’s a crisp suit, a casual Polo shirt, or the elegance of Purple Label, Ralph Lauren remains the ultimate go-to for every occasion.
Fashion is cyclical, but Ralph Lauren’s charm is timeless. From the universally wearable Polo shirt to the sophistication of Polo Ralph Lauren and Purple Label, the brand embodies not only clothing but a cultural lifestyle. So next time someone asks which brand can truly cover every occasion, the answer remains: Ralph Lauren.