Polo Ralph Lauren

The history and heritage of Polo Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren, born Ralph Lifshitz, was the son of immigrants and developed a fascination with the world of fashion from an early age. In 1967, he founded the Polo brand, beginning with a line of distinctive neckties. He quickly expanded his offerings to include shirts, suits and other garments—setting himself apart from the era’s producers, who largely focused on narrow product segments. Lauren’s creations not only captured the attention of the runway, but also featured in cinematic productions, significantly enhancing the brand’s prestige. Through perseverance and innovation, Ralph Lauren built one of the most recognisable names in fashion, a true embodiment of the American dream.

The Polo Ralph Lauren style is synonymous with classic refinement and understated elegance, drawing from preppy influences and the aesthetic of so-called “old money.” The legendary American house founded by Lauren is known for its clean silhouettes that emphasise sartorial finesse and exquisite craftsmanship. A defining feature of the brand is its ability to blend formality with a relaxed sense of luxury, allowing its collections to suit a range of everyday settings. Each piece reflects meticulous attention to detail. To this day, the brand remains under the stewardship of its founder, who continues to safeguard its legacy and authenticity. Polo Ralph Lauren represents a style philosophy rooted in tradition, reinterpreted through a modern lens.

Iconic pieces from Polo Ralph Lauren

In 1972, the fashion world was transformed by the launch of the now-iconic polo shirt, which swiftly became one of Polo Ralph Lauren’s most recognisable creations. Originally available in 24 colours, the shirt earned acclaim for its elegant design and outstanding craftsmanship. A hallmark of the classic Polo Ralph Lauren polo shirt lies in its seasonal adaptation—lighter fabrics are used in summer, while heavier, warmer weaves are chosen for the colder months.

The Polo logo, depicting a polo player in action, was introduced in 1974 and soon became the brand’s most emblematic signature. Ralph Lauren drew inspiration from a deep admiration for English lifestyle and the refined spirit of the sport. The Polo emblem captures the brand’s ethos with clarity—fusing athletic grace with polished sophistication. It serves as a symbol that reinforces the identity and stylistic depth of each Polo Ralph Lauren collection.

The iconic Polo Bear, first introduced in 1991, has since achieved cult status. This charming motif was created in collaboration with Richard Steiff, a designer of collectible toys, and was inspired by a family tradition of gifting impeccably dressed teddy bears. The first sweater featuring the bear in an American flag jumper became highly sought-after, launching a collection that continues to captivate to this day. The Polo Bear now appears across a variety of pieces—from sweatshirts and T-shirts to denim jackets and jumpers—executed in embroidery, knit or print. Following a production pause that lasted until 2013, the motif made a celebrated return, reaffirming its place as a style emblem infused with a sense of whimsy and relaxed confidence.

Clothing, footwear and accessories by Polo Ralph Lauren

Polo Ralph Lauren offers a comprehensive selection of clothing, footwear and accessories for men, women and children—combining timeless appeal with contemporary refinement. The brand’s apparel range includes women’s and men’s jumpers, sweatshirts, T-shirts, jackets, shirts and more, delivering versatile wardrobe options for both warmer and cooler seasons. With each spring/summer and autumn/winter launch, Polo Ralph Lauren unveils fresh prints and silhouettes that reflect current trends while staying true to its signature elegance.

Women’s and men’s footwear, marked by the emblematic polo player logo, stands out for its refined design and practical construction. The collection is further enriched by accessories such as bags, belts and watches, which complete an outfit and provide styling versatility for daily wear and special moments alike. Polo Ralph Lauren continues to represent prestige in fashion—consistently evolving while remaining anchored in its distinctive heritage.