Ralph Lauren’s Timeless Legacy: A Celebration of His 2025 CFDA Win and Vogue’s Iconic Moments
November 4, 2025
Here’s a bold statement: Ralph Lauren isn’t just a designer; he’s the embodiment of the American dream in fashion. From neckties to global lifestyle icon, his journey is nothing short of extraordinary. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating—at 86, Lauren continues to redefine elegance, earning the 2025 CFDA Womenswear Designer of the Year Award. How does one stay relevant for nearly six decades? Let’s dive into his unparalleled legacy, as seen through the lens of Vogue. And this is the part most people miss—his ability to blend optimism, timelessness, and innovation into every stitch.
Ralph Lauren, photographed by Annie Leibovitz in 2019, once shared with Vogue, ‘I’ve always believed optimism was the core value of the American spirit… it provides a kind of energy to propel our lives forward.’ This philosophy isn’t just words—it’s the heartbeat of his brand. From Polo’s debut to his latest collections, Lauren has painted a blue-sky vision of America, one that feels both aspirational and attainable. Controversial question: Does his idealized portrayal of the American dream resonate in today’s complex world, or is it a nostalgic escape? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Now, let’s take a visual journey through Vogue’s archives, where Lauren’s genius shines in every frame. From supermodels to athletes, his designs have dressed icons across generations, proving their universal appeal.
- Karlie Kloss and Caroline Trentini (November 2024) showcased the Ralph Lauren Collection’s timeless elegance, photographed by Norman Jean Roy.
- Sha’Carri Richardson (August 2024) brought boldness to a cut-out dress, captured by Luis Alberto Rodriguez.
- Adut Akech (March 2023) exuded sophistication in a sweater and shirt ensemble, photographed by Sean Thomas.
- Serena Williams (September 2022) redefined power in an asymmetric neckline dress, also by Rodriguez.
- Maty Fall (September 2022) embodied modern masculinity in a coat, shirt, and tie, shot by Samuel Rock.
- Bella Hadid (April 2022) channeled vintage glamour in a square-necked dress, photographed by Ethan James Green.
- Kayako Higuchi (February 2022) stunned in a Valentine’s Day red dress, captured by Alasdair McLellan.
- Vittoria Ceretti (December 2021) layered a Polo Ralph Lauren jacket, shirt, and jumpsuit, shot by Angelo Pennetta.
- Shauna Brennan (March 2021) brought youthful energy to an eyelet dress and sneakers, photographed by Jackie Nickerson.
- Gigi Hadid (January 2020) radiated grace in a Ralph Lauren Collection dress, captured by Sean Thomas.
- Ava Hariri-Kia (June 2019) showcased versatility in a tailored dress, shot by Ethan James Green.
- Adut Akech (May 2019) revived the Roaring ’20s in a houndstooth and herringbone ensemble, photographed by Theo Sion.
- Abby Champion (September 2018) layered a coat and dress over a henley, captured by Daniel Jackson.
- Leelee Sobieski (May 2018) powered through in a tailored pantsuit, shot by Nigel Shafran.
- Allison Williams (October 2016) embraced Western chic, photographed by David Sims.
- Nicole Kidman (August 2015) exuded Hollywood glamour, captured by Peter Lindbergh.
- Edie Campbell (December 2013) made Dickensian style modern, shot by Tim Walker.
- Catherine McNeil (July 2013) bewitched in an embroidered coat, photographed by Craig McDean.
- Kati Nescher (October 2012) showcased tailored perfection, captured by Lindbergh.
- Arizona Muse (November 2011) blended labels effortlessly, shot by David Sims.
- Rooney Mara (November 2011) wore a dragon-embroidered masterpiece, photographed by Mart Alas and Marcus Piggott.
- Valentina Zelyaeva (November 2011) brought frothy elegance, captured by Bjarne Jonasson.
- Isabelli Fontana (June 2011) mixed flannel and fringe, shot by McDean.
- Liu Wen (March 2011) shimmered in sequins, photographed by McDean.
- Stella Tennant (November 2010) layered a herringbone coat, captured by Sims.
- Jourdan Dunn (January 2009) strutted in silk, shot by Sims.
- Isabeli Fontana (October 2008) twisted tartan, photographed by Arthur Elgort.
- Natalia Vodianova (January 2008) revived Edwardian elegance, captured by Steven Meisel.
- Angelina Jolie (January 2007) glowed in silver lame, shot by Annie Leibovitz.
- Chris Clarke and Caroline Trentini (December 2006) channeled icons, photographed by Elgort.
- Angela Lindvall (August 2006) shimmered in gold, captured by Steven Klein.
- Cate Blanchett (December 2004) wore Art Deco perfection, shot by Leibovitz.
- A slip dress (November 2003) defined party-ready, photographed by Elgort.
- Sandra Bullock (January 2003) mixed corsets and denim, captured by Meisel.
- Carmen Kass (November 2002) revisited 1989, shot by Elgort.
- Kirsty Hume (September 1995) suited up, photographed by Elgort.
- Nadja Auermann (September 1993) reimagined 19th-century menswear, captured by Elgort.
- Christy Turlington (August 1993) blended military and office chic, shot by Elgort.
- Shalom Harlow (February 1993) dreamed in wide-legged pants, photographed by Elgort.
- Naomi Campbell and Christy Turlington (February 1992) sailed in nautical looks, captured by Elgort.
- Linda Evangelista (September 1991) clicked in tartan, shot by Elgort.
- Karen Mulder (April 1991) wore a ‘swimwear’ dress, photographed by Irving Penn.
- Tatjana Patitz (October 1989) rocked fringed suede, captured by Elgort.
- Carré Otis (June 1989) glowed in a sundress, shot by Elgort.
- Ralph Lauren (January 1989) was captured at work by Patrick Demarchelier.
- Cordula Reyer (September 1988) layered a suit and turtleneck, photographed by Penn.
- Lisa Taylor (August 1976) embodied simplicity, shot by Elgort.
- Charlotte Rampling (July 1976) looked fit, captured by Helmut Newton.
- Apollonia van Ravenstein (May 1973) sported terry pullover and track pants, photographed by Bob Stone.
- Beverly Johnson (February 1973) kept it pure in cashmere, shot by Penn.
Vogue’s 1975 tribute sums it up: ‘From fabric to concept, Ralph Lauren redefines classic sportswear for women—with dash and style.’ His legacy isn’t just in the clothes; it’s in the stories they tell and the dreams they inspire. Final thought: As we celebrate his 2025 CFDA win, is Ralph Lauren’s vision still the gold standard, or is fashion ready for a new narrative? Share your thoughts below!
