The Presidential Medal of Freedom honors individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values or security of the United States, world peace or other important endeavors. Established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, the medal has been awarded to a wide range of influential figures across disciplines, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., President Ronald Reagan, Maya Angelou, Mother Teresa and , most recently, Billie. Jean King and Simone Biles. Ralph Lauren is the first fashion designer to receive this distinction, a historic recognition of his transformative influence on American culture and society.
Ralph Lauren received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Biden on January 4, in recognition of his six-decade career as a visionary designer, entrepreneur and philanthropist. As the first fashion designer to earn this honor, Lauren has redefined American style, celebrated cultural heritage, and championed philanthropy, particularly in cancer care and equity.
For more than six decades, Ralph Lauren has celebrated the essence of American culture, creating an enduring vision that defines American style. As an ambassador of American taste, style and culture, Lauren has shaped the way the world views the country's heritage and values. Their collections have often been described as storytelling through design, with each piece evoking themes of aspiration, tradition and individuality. Translating her artistic vision into a global lifestyle brand, Lauren is recognized as one of the world's most innovative leaders in design and business.
Ralph Lauren's journey began in the Bronx, New York, where his roots instilled in him a belief in the power of hard work, aspiration and authenticity. He began designing men's ties in a single drawer in the Empire State Building and built one of the most iconic global lifestyle brands in history. His life and career are deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of American heritage, drawing inspiration from the country's landscapes, cultures, and art. Through the timeless elegance of her men's, women's and children's clothing, her extensive home collections, film advertising and the intricate beauty of her stores and restaurants, Lauren has redefined American style. His story is a profound testament to the limitless possibilities of creativity, determination, and the American dream.
Throughout her illustrious career, Lauren has been celebrated with numerous prestigious honors, including the James Smithson Bicentennial Medal, which recognizes her lifetime contributions as a great American and her leadership in preserving the Star-Spangled Banner; the Knight of the Legion of Honor of France in recognition of his influence as a designer, business leader and philanthropist; and Honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE), making him the first American designer to receive this distinction. He has also received numerous honors from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), including Menswear and Womenswear Designer of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, and American Fashion Legend Award, among others.
Beyond his contributions to fashion and culture, Ralph Lauren continues to leave a deep mark in philanthropy, with a particular focus on the fight against cancer. Her personal mission to reduce disparities in cancer care has positively impacted countless lives. The Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation continues to champion equity and empower underserved communities around the world, embodying its belief in the power of compassion and opportunity.
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Fiber2Fashion News Desk (RM)
