Ralph Lauren - Iconic golf fashion

“I have always had a clear vision. I wanted to develop quality products and create a whole world around that. It means taking risks, going with what you feel, but never losing sight of your vision and conviction.” - Ralph Lauren

With these words, Ralph Lauren defines the philosophy upon which he has built a global lifestyle brand, representing the best in American design, exemplified by understated sophistication and the utmost attention to detail.

CULTURAL ICON.  It was in 1967 that the 28 year old designer first launched with a line of neckties under the label Polo, followed shortly by a menswear collection and a store in Bloomingdale’s in New York City.      Since then Ralph Lauren has become recognised as one of the world’s most innovative designers and has, over the last 47 years, become a cultural icon and a multi-billion dollar brand. He has earned many an accolade, among them Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur and the Key to the City of New York, an honour given to distinguished persons for outstanding civic contributions. 

CANCER RESEARCH. Beyond the awards and praises he has received for his mark on the industry, Ralph Lauren is also recognized for his strong commitment to philanthropy, both personally and corporately.     After a dear friend passed away from breast cancer, Lauren helped create the Nina Hyde Center for Breast Cancer Research at Georgetown University, as well as setting up the Polo Ralph Lauren Foundation to support programs that benefit cancer care and prevention.  

GAME CHANGER. It isn’t only on the runways that the famous designer makes a splash. He’s also trying to change the way we dress on the fairways, and in September it was announced that Ralph Lauren had been named an Official Partner and Outfitter of the PGA of America until 2020.     The licensing agreement also designates that Ralph Lauren is the Official Partner and Official Outfitter of the PGA Championship, the Official Outfitter of Ryder Cups conducted in the United States during that period, and the Official Outfitter of every U.S. Ryder Cup Team until 2020.    “The PGA of America is very proud to have Ralph Lauren, a brand synonymous with the best in sports, partner with our premier competitions – the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup,” said PGA of America Chief Executive Officer Pete Bevacqua. “Perhaps the most exciting part of this partnership is Ralph Lauren’s shared commitment to our PGA Professionals who grow, teach and manage the game.”

TRADITION AND DEDICATION.  Ralph Lauren’s partnership with the PGA of America reinforces the brand’s dedication to golf as well as its leadership in major global sporting initiatives. Since 1987, Polo Golf has defined excellence from the club to the course.            From outfitting professionals who represent what is extraordinary about the sport, to a sharpened focus on the needs of the modern golfer, the legacy of Polo Golf is its respect for tradition and its dedication to the future of the game.

UNITED WE STAND. At the Ryder Cup the team wore performance-ready polos featuring modern variegated stripes, while others, in solid white and navy, were emblazoned with the tournament’s crest and a band of 12 stars at the shoulder to signify the importance of each team member.         The words “United We Stand” were embroidered into the golf shirts as a nod to Captain Tom Watson’s strong team ethos. Trousers ranged from solid blue and red to navy pinstripes to a heritage tartan plaid in green and navy.     Layering pieces included sporty half-zips and vests in technical stretch jersey, as well as more classic crewnecks—from an iconic American flag sweater to a blue and navy pullover with an intarsia-knit Ryder Cup motif. The team also carried foul weather gear designed for superior protection from the elements, including a waterproof Black Watch tartan printed shell and a packable down jacket in white with red and navy accents.

LIGHTWEIGHT AND FUNCTIONAL. Inspired by the all-American style of college and professional football coaches of the past, the Ryder Cup Captain and Vice-Captain uniforms showcased menswear classics—grey and khaki slacks, striped shirts and navy blazers—mixed with updated versions of old-school outerwear pieces, including a sharp navy walking coat in luxe bonded cotton. Rounding out the captains’ looks, quilted vests and lightweight sweaters and half-zips will provide functional warmth and versatility in Scotland’s notoriously unpredictable conditions.

TIMELESS. For over 47 years, Ralph Lauren has cultivated the iconography of America into a global lifestyle empire. Whether it is a reflection of the New England coast, Native American culture, or Hollywood glamour—Ralph Lauren embodies an expression of timeless style that is recognized and coveted around the world.           Today, the Company is a leader in the design, marketing and distribution of premium lifestyle products in four categories: apparel, home, accessories and fragrances. The Company's brand names, which include Polo by Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Collection, and Lauren by Ralph Lauren, constitute one of the most widely recognized families of consumer brands. Ralph Lauren operates over 300 stores worldwide, with recent international expansion in Dubai, Korea, Paris and Hong Kong.