Ralph Lauren Ephemera

American

To suggest that Ralph Lauren has come a long way is an understatement. From his humble beginnings as a tie salesman working out of a drawer at New York’s Empire State Building, he grew one of the world’s largest and most successful fashion empires from scratch.

For decades, Ralph Lauren’s clothing brand has blended classic, preppy Americana East Coast-style with the look of upper-crust English aristocracy. This style is the hallmark of Ralph Lauren’s design and can be seen in all facets of his brand, from its vintage apparel, accessories and jewelry to furniture and décor.

The iconic fashion designer was born Ralph Rueben Lifshitz in New York City and grew up in the Bronx. When he and his brother were in their teens, they changed their surname from Lifshitz to Lauren after being teased about it at school. Later on, Lauren took business classes at night, worked at various menswear retailers and did a stint in the U.S. Army. While working at tie manufacturer Beau Brummel, he was inspired to create his own line of ties.

In 1967, Lauren launched “Polo,” ties handmade from high-quality fabrics featuring a wide design. They were a success. Lauren sold $500,000 worth to retail giants Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus and Paul Stuart in his first year.

Lauren expanded his designs into clothing, with his first menswear line of classic tweed suits in 1968 and, in 1971, his first line of womenswear featuring classic feminine tailoring. Lauren’s nostalgic fashion soon captured the eye of Hollywood. He created costumes for the 1974 adaptation of The Great Gatsby and was responsible for Diane Keaton’s distinctive feminine menswear look in 1977’s Annie Hall. Ralph Lauren’s designs have since garnered national and international acclaim and recognition — from Gwyneth Paltrow’s iconic pink 1999 Oscars dress to becoming the official outfitter of Team USA for the Olympics since 2008.

In 2018, Ralph Lauren celebrated his 50th anniversary with a star-studded fashion show and, in 2019, was awarded an honorary knighthood — the highest British honor — for services to fashion.

On 1stDibs, discover a wide range of vintage Ralph Lauren shirts, sweaters and other clothing.

Ralph Lauren ephemera for sale on 1stDibs.

Find an extraordinary range of authentic Ralph Lauren ephemera available on 1stDibs. Customers who are interested in this designer might also find the work of Ann Demeulemeester, Moschino, and Jeremy Scott appealing. On 1stDibs, find haute couture, vintage and designer Ralph Lauren ephemera from top boutiques around the world. Ralph Lauren ephemera prices can differ depending upon time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $134 and tops out at $134, while the average work can sell for $134.

Questions About Ralph Lauren Ephemera

Is Polo Ralph Lauren the same as Ralph Lauren?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Polo Ralph Lauren is technically the same as Ralph Lauren, as Polo Ralph Lauren is a sportswear and fragrance line owned by the Ralph Lauren Corporation. However, Polo is not the same as Ralph Lauren. The Ralph Lauren Corporation owns the Polo Ralph Lauren brand, while Polo is produced by U.S. Polo Association.
What is the difference between Ralph Lauren and Ralph Lauren Purple Label?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between Ralph Lauren and Ralph Lauren Purple Label is the specificity of the terms. Ralph Lauren is the name of the fashion house that American fashion designer Ralph Lauren founded in New York City in 1967. Among the many lines that Ralph Lauren produces, Ralph Lauren Purple Label is the brand's collection of luxury clothing for men and women. Find a selection of Ralph Lauren apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
What ethnicity is Ralph Lauren?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Ralph Lauren's ethnicity is Eastern European. The fashion designer is of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, and both of his parents were born in what is now Belarus. Lauren's nationality is American. He was born in New York City in 1939. Shop a collection of Ralph Lauren apparel and accessories from some of the world's top boutiques on 1stDibs.
Why is Ralph Lauren so expensive?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Ralph Lauren is considered a premium brand and is an internationally recognized name in fashion, furniture and more. The quality of materials and durability of Ralph Lauren clothing and more — as well as its universal brand recognition and affiliations with high-end designers — play a role in the price of the company's goods in today's marketplace. Find a variety of Ralph Lauren products on 1stDibs.
Where is Ralph Lauren made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
Where Ralph Lauren is made depends on the piece. The American fashion house manufactures clothing and accessories in China, Italy, Sri Lanka and Vietnam. Select items are also manufactured in the USA. For example, the jeans that Ralph Lauren designed for Team USA to wear during the opening ceremony of the 2018 Olympic Winter Games were crafted in El Paso, Texas. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of Ralph Lauren apparel and accessories.
What are all the Ralph Lauren brands?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Ralph Lauren has a range of brands, which include Ralph Lauren Collection, Polo Ralph Lauren and Chaps to name a few. There are a total of 17 fashion brands and four home and lifestyle brands under the Ralph Lauren Group umbrella. Find vintage and contemporary Ralph Lauren clothing and accessories from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
What is Ralph Lauren's signature style?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
Ralph Lauren's signature style is traditional or classic. For decades, Ralph Lauren's clothing brand has blended classic, preppy American East Coast style with the look of upper-crust English aristocracy. This style is the hallmark of Ralph Lauren's designs and can be seen in all facets of the brand, from its vintage apparel, accessories and jewelry to furniture and decor. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Ralph Lauren pieces.
What made Ralph Lauren famous?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
What made Ralph Lauren famous is his eponymous clothing brand, which blends classic, preppy Americana East Coast style with the look of upper-crust English aristocracy. Lauren got his start as a tie salesman working out of a drawer at New York's Empire State Building and went on to grow one of the world's largest and most successful fashion empires from scratch. He debuted as a designer in 1967 with his Polo collection of handmade neckties. Today, his family of brands makes apparel, accessories, furniture, textiles and home décor. On 1stDibs, explore a collection of Ralph Lauren pieces.
Where is Ralph Lauren Polo made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Where Ralph Lauren Polo is made varies. The American brand produces most of its pieces overseas, particularly in Southeast Asia. As a result, many pieces will have "Made in China" or "Made in Bangladesh" on their tags. Ralph Lauren manufactures pieces for its higher-end brands, such as Ralph Lauren Purple Label, at workshops in Italy. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of Ralph Lauren apparel and accessories.
Is Ralph Lauren still popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
Although fashion trends do change over time, Ralph Lauren typically remains popular. Part of the reason for the brand's enduring appeal is its focus on creating well-made basics that remain in style as the years pass. In fact, many vintage Ralph Lauren pieces are every bit as fashionable today as they were when they first filled shelves and racks in department stores decades ago. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Ralph Lauren apparel and accessories.
How do I tell what year my Ralph Lauren is?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024
To tell what year your Ralph Lauren is, use the brand label found on the piece. The American fashion brand has changed its label many times over the years. By comparing your piece to images posted on trusted online resources, you can get a rough idea of how old it is. It’s also helpful to have your garment or accessory examined by a vintage fashion specialist. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Ralph Lauren apparel and accessories.
What is the difference between RRL and Ralph Lauren?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between RRL and Ralph Lauren is that one is the name of a fashion house, and the other is a line it produces. Ralph Lauren is the overall name of the company, founded by designer Ralph Lauren in 1967. In 1993, the company introduced the RRL by Ralph Lauren collection to offer a line of casual clothing inspired by workwear and the American West. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of Ralph Lauren apparel and accessories.
Where are Ralph Lauren watches made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
Ralph Lauren watches are made in Switzerland. Since the introduction of its watch collection in 2008, the American fashion brand has produced its timepieces through the Ralph Lauren Watch and Jewelry Company located in Geneva, Switzerland. This entity was formed through a partnership with Richemont, the holding company that has owned several luxury watchmakers, including Vacheron Constantin and Piaget. Shop a wide range of Ralph Lauren apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
How can you tell an authentic Ralph Lauren?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
To tell an authentic Ralph Lauren, conduct online research to learn more about the identifying characteristics of the specific type of item you have. For example, studying the iconic embroidered horse on a Ralph Lauren polo shirt can often help you spot a fake. On the other hand, ensuring that the knit texture is uniform and that the same stitch is present on all seams is a method for authenticating a Ralph Lauren sweater. If questions remain about the authenticity of your piece even after your research and examination, consult a certified appraiser or expert authenticator. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of Ralph Lauren apparel and accessories.
Does Ralph Lauren make furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
While the brand is most famous for its clothing designs, Ralph Lauren does indeed make furniture. It has been described as some of the best luxury furniture on the market with opulent pieces and a rich layered look. You can shop a collection of Ralph Lauren furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What are the different levels of Ralph Lauren?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 6, 2024
Here are some of the different levels of Ralph Lauren: Chaps is an entry-level line of casual sportswear for men and women, while Lauren Ralph Lauren is an entry-level collection of denim, sportswear and accessories for women. A step up from these labels is Polo Ralph Lauren, which includes clothing and accessories for men, women and children. Other mid-level lines include the activewear range Polo Sport and the men's suit separates collection Ralph by Ralph Lauren. The highest-level lines from the American fashion house are Ralph Lauren Purple Label for men and Ralph Lauren Collection for women. On 1stDibs, find a selection of Ralph Lauren apparel and accessories.
What is Ralph Lauren’s style called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
What Ralph Lauren's style is called depends on who you ask. Some terms you may see used to describe the style of the American brand include classic, traditional, preppy and Americana East Coast. Whatever you prefer to call it, this style is the hallmark of Ralph Lauren’s design and can be seen in all facets of the brand, from its apparel, accessories and jewelry to furniture and decor. Shop a diverse assortment of Ralph Lauren pieces on 1stDibs.
What is Ralph Lauren’s luxury label?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 6, 2024
Ralph Lauren's luxury label is the Ralph Lauren Purple Label. Garments and accessories from this collection are made with sumptuous fabrics produced by world-renowned mills, and its celebrated sweaters, suits and other pieces are tailored by hand in Italy. Ralph Lauren launched the label in 1994. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of Ralph Lauren Purple Label apparel and accessories from some of the world's top boutiques.
What style is Ralph Lauren furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
The style of Ralph Lauren furniture varies. The brand’s furnishings run the gamut from English-country style, which means plenty of tufted chesterfields and handsome wood tables, to Art Deco–influenced glamour to breezy pieces inspired by beachside locales. (Rattan and bamboo are common.) Authentic Ralph Lauren designs often take their cues from 18th-century antiques or reproductions and frequently have the worn-in look of vintage furniture. Luxe materials like mahogany, brass and leather are commonplace in the company’s offerings. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Ralph Lauren furniture from some of the world's top sellers.
What is Ralph Lauren's real name?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
Ralph Lauren's real name is Ralph Lifshitz. He changed his name at the age of 16, reportedly due to bullying at school. In an interview with Oprah Winfrey, Lauren said that the surname was inspired by Lawrence, a name adopted by his cousins when they, too, selected new names for themselves. Ralph's older brother, Jerry, also took the name Lauren. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Ralph Lauren apparel and accessories.