Call him Sir Ralph. Iconic fashion designer Ralph Lauren has officially gone from the Bronx to Buckingham Palace, it was announced Wednesday. The 79-year…
Call him Sir Ralph.
Iconic fashion designer Ralph Lauren has officially gone from the Bronx to Buckingham Palace, it was announced Wednesday.
The 79-year-old—who is celebrating the 50th anniversary of his eponymous company—will be made an Honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE).
“In his storied career in fashion, business, and philanthropy, Mr. Lauren has played a key role in forging transatlantic cultural and economic connections,” said Antony Phillipson, British Consul General to New York in a press release.
Though notable countrymen like Ronald Reagan, Michael Bloomberg and Steven Spielberg have also been recognized, Lauren will be the first American fashion designer to receive the honor.
He will be presented with the knighthood insignia during a ceremony next year.
“As creator and visionary of the Ralph Lauren brand worldwide, Mr. Lauren has been a vanguard for the global fashion industry and American style for nearly half a century,” Phillipson added.
“In addition, monumental philanthropic efforts, especially in the realm of public health, cancer research and treatment in both the US and the UK, have led to benefits felt by citizens around the world.”
This latest distinction is a giant red bow on top of what has already been a whirlwind autumn for Lauren as he marks his golden anniversary.
In September, he presided over a star-studded runway show in Central Park during New York Fashion Week, where he was feted by Oprah Winfrey.
A week later, Lauren—who grew up on Mosholu Parkway— returned to his home borough to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before a Yankees vs. Red Sox game.
The father of three will need to clear space on his mantel. Lauren has also been given the French Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur, the Key to the City of New York and a laundry list of CFDA awards.
