Ralph Lauren Awarded Honorary Knighthood for Services to Fashion

The Prince of Wales presented the 79-year-old fashion designer with the insignia in private ceremony at Buckingham Palace, attended by the Lauren family.

Starting his brand in 1967, Lauren serves as the executive chairman and chief creative officer of Ralph Lauren Corporation. Over the past 50 years the American brand has grown to become a household name recognised worldwide by its polo-rider logo and quintessential American style.

This recognition of Lauren’s services marks him as the first American fashion designer to be honoured with a UK knighthood or damehood; a historic reparation for the generous philanthropy work he has committed to British institutions like Wimbledon and The Royal Marsden Hospital. As well as his charitable donations, the designer has been taking inspiration from British culture throughout the 50 years of his eponymous brand; paying homage to traditional British aesthetics of uniform and tailoring.

‘I have always been inspired by the history, traditions and culture of Great Britain and the historic relationship our two countries have shared. This is one of the most meaningful honours bestowed at this very special moment in my 50th anniversary,’ said Lauren in a statement on the event.

Having already obtained the Key to the City of New York, for his civic contributions, and the French Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur, in recognition of his business leadership and design influence, Ralph Lauren has truly thread his name, brand and polo shirts into fashion history.