Ep 4. Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren has been dubbed the “American Dream Designer” and in the fourth episode of Bloomberg Game Changers season 4, his success story is explored. From humble beginnings in the Bronx to becoming a fashion icon and multi-billionaire, this episode takes a closer look at the man behind the brand.

Through interviews with family, friends, and colleagues, viewers get a glimpse into Lauren’s childhood and upbringing. He was born Ralph Lifshitz and was the youngest of four siblings. He grew up in a modest apartment with parents who were immigrants from Belarus. Lauren’s father worked as a house painter and his mother was a homemaker. Despite their limited means, they instilled in Lauren a sense of pride and an appreciation for hard work.

As a teenager, Lauren worked at a department store and became interested in fashion. He began to experiment with his own personal style, which eventually caught the attention of his classmates. Lauren’s passion for fashion continued while he attended college, where he studied business and took night classes at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

After college, Lauren worked for a tie manufacturer before branching out and starting his own business. His first foray into fashion was designing neckties, which he sold to small boutiques around New York. As his business grew, Lauren saw an opportunity to expand beyond ties and began designing men’s clothing. He launched his brand, Polo Ralph Lauren, in 1967.

Lauren’s vision for the brand was to create a lifestyle concept that went beyond just clothing. He wanted to capture the essence of the American dream and create a brand that represented the aspirational lifestyle he believed his customers wanted. From the iconic polo logo to the preppy, classic designs, Lauren’s brand became synonymous with American style.

The episode also explores some of the challenges Lauren faced as his brand grew. From a failed attempt to launch a fragrance line to missteps in expanding into Asia, Lauren faced his fair share of setbacks. But through it all, he remained steadfast in his vision and commitment to his brand.

Interviews with fashion insiders and industry experts provide insight into the impact Lauren has had on the fashion industry as a whole. From his pioneering use of direct-to-consumer marketing to his innovative runway shows, Lauren has always been ahead of the curve.

The episode ends with a look at Lauren’s legacy and the impact he has had on American fashion. From the iconic pieces that have become staples in closets around the world to the countless designers he has inspired, Ralph Lauren’s influence on the fashion industry cannot be overstated.

Overall, this episode of Bloomberg Game Changers season 4 provides a fascinating look at one of the most influential designers of our time. With behind-the-scenes glimpses into the evolution of the Polo Ralph Lauren brand and interviews with those who know him best, viewers get a comprehensive understanding of how Ralph Lauren became a game changer in the world of fashion.