With just days remaining in the Oval Office, President Joe Biden has awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 recepients, including Ralph Lauren. Lauren, now the first fashion designer to receive the nation’s highest civilian honour, was celebrated in a White House ceremony on January 4 for his contributions to American style and philanthropy.
Key Takeaways
- Ralph Lauren is now the first fashion designer to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. It was awarded for Lauren’s philanthropic contributions, including his efforts in cancer care and cultural preservation.
- Lauren started the business in 1967 from a tiny office at the Empire State building. His first breakthrough came when Neiman Marcus ordered 1,200 ties.
- He stepped down from his position as CEO in 2015; His son, David, is chief branding and innovation officer.
- Lauren was ranked 110th on the Forbes List of 400 Wealthiest Americans in 2024.
- Other notable Medal of Freedom recipients this year include Hilary Clinton, Denzel Washington, Simone Biles, Anna Wintour, and Michael J. Fox.
Big Number
$10.8 billion: Ralph Lauren’s estimated net worth according to Forbes, with his company generating $6.63 billion in revenue last year.
Crucial Quote
“America is my country — my home and its history, traditions, and values have always been an inspiration. To receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom is an honour of a lifetime,” Lauren said during the ceremony.
Key Background
Born in the Bronx, New York, Ralph Lauren’s journey from designing ties in a drawer to building a global fashion empire is a quintessential American success story. His brand, known for its classic Polo shirts and timeless preppy style, has become a symbol of American aspiration and achievement.
Lauren’s designs have dressed U.S. presidents, Olympians, and celebrities, blending East Coast prep with cowboy cool. His influence later extended beyond clothing into homeware, fragrances, and hospitality.
Beyond fashion, Lauren has made a significant mark in philanthropy, particularly in cancer care and cultural preservation. He founded the Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation, which has funded cancer research and provided support to underserved communities.
“For the final time as president I have the honour bestowing the Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honour, on a group of extraordinary, truly extraordinary people, who gave their sacred effort, their sacred effort, to shape the culture and the cause of America,” Biden said.
“Let me just say to each of you, thank you, thank you, thank you for all you’ve done to help this country,” Biden said Saturday.
Tangent
Lauren’s influence extends to the sporting world, including his role as the official outfitter of the Australian Open. For five consecutive years, Ralph Lauren has dressed ball kids and staff in eco-friendly, moisture-wicking uniforms made from recycled materials.
Fans attending the Australian Open can purchase exclusive Ralph Lauren AO collections, and the brand’s customisation program allows them to personalise their apparel with tennis-inspired motifs and initials, bridging performance with personal expression.
Full List: The 2025 Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipients
Ralph Lauren — Legendary fashion designer who redefined American style and culture while supporting philanthropy in cancer care and cultural preservation.
Lionel Messi — One of the most decorated footballers in history, recognised for his contributions to healthcare and education through the Leo Messi Foundation.
José Andrés — Renowned chef and founder of World Central Kitchen, revolutionising food aid in disaster-stricken areas.
Jane Goodall — Conservationist and ethologist whose groundbreaking research transformed the understanding of primates and human evolution.
Hillary Clinton — Former U.S. Secretary of State, First Lady, and U.S. Senator, recognised for her contributions to public service and women’s rights.
Michael J. Fox — Actor and advocate for Parkinson’s disease research, known for his role in “Back to the Future.”
Simone Biles — The most decorated gymnast in history, celebrated for her advocacy of mental health and athlete welfare.
Bono — Frontman of U2 and advocate against AIDS and poverty, co-founder of the ONE Campaign and (RED) initiative.
Bill Nye — Science educator and advocate for space exploration and environmental stewardship, known for “Bill Nye the Science Guy.”
Earvin “Magic” Johnson — Former NBA star turned entrepreneur and philanthropist, supporting underserved communities through the Magic Johnson Foundation.
Anna Wintour — Fashion icon and long-time editor-in-chief of Vogue, recognised for her contributions to the fashion industry and philanthropy.
David Rubenstein — Co-founder of The Carlyle Group, recognised for his philanthropy and support for restoring historic landmarks.
George Soros — Philanthropist and founder of the Open Society Foundations, supporting democracy and human rights worldwide.
Denzel Washington — Acclaimed actor and director, known for his roles in films like “Malcolm X” and “Training Day.”
Tim Gill — Software entrepreneur and LGBTQ+ rights advocate, recognised for his efforts in securing marriage equality and anti-discrimination protections.
Ashton Baldwin Carter (posthumous) — Former U.S. Secretary of Defense, honoured for his lifelong service to national security.
Fannie Lou Hamer (posthumous) — Civil rights activist and founder of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, known for her fight against racial injustice.
Robert F. Kennedy (posthumous) — Former U.S. Attorney General and Senator, celebrated for his work in addressing poverty and inequality.
George Stevens Jr. — Founder of the American Film Institute and creator of the Kennedy Center Honors, recognised for his contributions to film and performing arts.
