More than a brand, Ralph Lauren is a representation of the American Dream, masterfully woven into the fabric of fashion. Founded in 1967 by a young tie salesman from the Bronx named Ralph Lifshitz, the empire began not with a grand collection, but with a simple, revolutionary idea. Lauren introduced wide, handmade ties, a stark contrast to the slim styles popular at the time. This initial step, fueled by a $50,000 loan and an unerring vision, marked the beginning of a global powerhouse that would redefine classic American style.

The brand's true break came not in menswear, but in womenswear, when Ralph Lauren designed the costumes for the 1974 film adaptation of The Great Gatsby. The romantic, aristocratic flair captured the public's imagination and cemented the "Polo" aesthetic—one of timeless elegance, old-money sophistication, and effortless cool. This vision was fully realized with the iconic Polo Pony emblem. That small, meticulously stitched figure of a polo player became an instant and enduring symbol of aspiration and quality, appearing on everything from the now-ubiquitous polo shirt to rugged denim and luxurious outerwear.