Ralph Lauren, the designer of one of the world's most gentile and affluential brands, was hardly a gentleman or person of major importance to the outside society growing up. Raised in the Bronx, Lauren was the child of two immigrants and lived in a small apartment, sharing his bedroom with his two brothers. Living in a jewish family, his mother hoped he would become a rabbi, but even from an early age Ralph's heart was in fashion and entrepreneurship. He worked after school as a stock boy and sold handmade ties to classmates so he could purchase stylish suits. He went to Baruch College for two years but then dropped out, he never attended fashion school. He had a stint in the army and then became a salesman for Brooks Brothers however they weren't interested in helping him develop his own line so he went and work for Beau Brumwell Neckwear which let him design and sell his own "Polo" brand ties in their showroom. The ties were a hit and soon began to be sold in other stores, and as Lauren had more revenue he soon began to design other wear for both men and women. He eventually earned enough that he opened his own store and developed his brand, which now includes cologne and furnishings too. Ralph Lauren is currently the 76th richest man in America and all from starting in a tiny apartment (McKay).
The above is the current logo for Ralph Lauren and not only depicts the brand name but embodies a gentile mood through the character in the middle. The self-made man, Ralph Lauren was not a gentleman growing up but became one through hard work and made his brand to represent that (Ralph Lauren: Shop Clothing for Men, Women, Children & Babies).
The picture to the right shows Ralph Lauren standing in front of his new women's clothing line at the opening of his new store in Beverly Hills. The picture also contains a link to the fashion exhibit in gender roles if you would like to read more about how media affects clothing and thus clothing design (21 Moments That Made Ralph Lauren). |
"You have to create something from nothing."
The above quote is said by Ralph Lauren and perfectly embodies the ideals of a self-made man. Lauren knows that it is possible to start with nothing but still create something as long as the effort and dedication is given (Lauren).