The iconic American designer Ralph Lauren will receive the Outstanding Achievement Award at the Fashion Awards next month, the British Fashion Council has announced.
The New York-born designer launched his eponymous brand in 1967 with a line of men’s ties, before launching his ‘Polo’ menswear line and a collection of women’s tailoring. Ralph Lauren rapidly expanded to encompass everything from fragrance to childrenswear, showcasing a classic all-American aesthetic.
Lauren is also known as one of the fashion industry’s most active philanthropists. Since co-founding the Nina Hyde Centre for Breast Cancer Research back in 1989, the designer has continued to support many charitable causes through his Polo Ralph Lauren Foundation and the American Heroes Fund.
Natalie Massenet, chairman of the BFC, said ‘Ralph Lauren is an exemplary designer and businessman. He has helped to define an era in both American and global fashion with his singular vision; I know that most of us would say he has inspired us immeasurably. He has built an outstanding legacy and I look forward to celebrating him for years to come.’
Lauren will be presented with the award at a ceremony held at the Royal Albert Hall on Monday 5th December. He’ll be joined by his long-term collaborator Bruce Weber, who was recently announced as the recipient of the Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator.
As a recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award, Lauren joins the illustrious likes of Karl Lagerfeld, Anna Wintour, Terry and Tricia Jones and Manolo Blahnik.
READ MORE: Bruce Weber Will Be Honoured At The Fashion Awards