Ralph Lauren Receives Presidential Medal of Freedom from Joe Biden
On January 4, 2025, renowned American designer Ralph Lauren, aged 86, was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden at the White House. This honor marks him as the first fashion designer to receive the medal since its establishment by President John F. Kennedy in 1963. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to American prosperity, values, national security, and world peace. Notable past recipients include civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., former President Ronald Reagan, acclaimed author Maya Angelou, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Mother Teresa, and legendary tennis star Billie Jean King, among others.
Since founding the Ralph Lauren brand in 1967, Lauren has been hailed as the father of American fashion, embodying the essence of American style. Rising from humble beginnings as the son of immigrants, he became a self-made entrepreneur, fashion designer, and philanthropist. Although he never formally studied design, his innate sense of style led him to redefine 'American' fashion, starting with necktie designs and expanding into menswear, womenswear, children's clothing, home collections, and even restaurants. He is the only designer to have won the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) awards for 'Menswear Designer of the Year,' 'Womenswear Designer of the Year,' 'Designer of the Year,' and the 'Lifetime Achievement Award.' Actress Audrey Hepburn praised him during the 1992 CFDA Lifetime Achievement Award ceremony, stating that he created a comprehensive concept of fashion and style, maintaining it with consistency and integrity while reminding us of the best in life.
In 2006, The New York Times coined the term 'very Ralph Lauren' to describe self-made individuals, further solidifying his influence. Lauren is also actively involved in cancer awareness and treatment initiatives. The Wall Street Journal noted that through the Ralph Lauren Corporation Foundation, he has established cancer centers in the U.S. and Europe, working to address disparities in cancer treatment.
Throughout his career, Lauren has received numerous prestigious awards. In 2014, he was honored with the James Smithson Bicentennial Medal from the Smithsonian Institution for his contributions to the restoration and preservation of the early American flag featured in the War of 1812. This award recognizes outstanding contributions in art, science, history, education, and technology. Additionally, he has received the French government's Legion of Honor and is the first American designer to be awarded the Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE).
