Ralph Lauren, the legendary American designer whose preppy threads have become synonymous with East Coast chic, will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Early Saturday afternoon, President Joe Biden bestowed the medal − the nation’s highest civilian honor − to Lauren for his contributions to the worlds of fashion and philanthropy.
Lauren is the first fashion designer to ever receive the honor. Previous honorees include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Maya Angelou, Billie Jean King and Biden himself. Doling out the awards is one of the final official duties Biden will take in office, and his picks (a mix so far of congresspeople, activists and war heroes) will form one part of the larger legacy he hopes to leave.
A star-studded roster of honorees joined Lauren at the White House ceremony, which included chef José Andrés, Irish singer and U2 frontman Bono, Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour, “Back to the Future” star Michael J. Fox, Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington and TV personality Bill Nye, among other cultural luminaries.
“Ralph Lauren transformed a small necktie business into one of America’s most iconic brands, leaving (an) imprint on the world of fashion, fragrance, furniture and beyond,” an unnamed U.S. military member read. “Throughout it all, he remains a dedicated philanthropist, including fighting to end cancer as we know it. Classic yet creative, timeless yet innovative, Ralph Lauren reminds us of our distinct style as a nation of dreamers and doers.”
Defying homogeny but bound still by a common thread, Ralph Lauren clothing projects a specific strain of Americana. Bordering on sporting wear, his polos and sweaters have a Kennedy-classic look to them, sometimes even featuring large embroideries of the American flag.
“His life and career are deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of American heritage, drawing inspiration from the country’s landscapes, cultures, and artistry,” Lauren’s team said in a statement to USA TODAY prior to the announcement.
Born in the Bronx borough of New York City, Lauren got his start designing men’s ties by hand from a single drawer in the Empire State Building. In 1967 he launched a neckwear line titled “Polo” and a year later released his first full men’s collection.
