How Ralph Lauren Inspired My Love for Fashion

From the moment I discovered Ralph Lauren, I knew it was different. It was one of the first brands that made me feel something special about clothing—something deeper than just covering myself up. It represented luxury to me, but in a way that was attainable. Ralph Lauren bridged the gap between high-end designer style and everyday wear, making it feel accessible without losing its aspirational quality.

When I wore Ralph Lauren, I felt like I was stepping into a better version of myself. It was polished yet approachable, casual yet sophisticated. Whether I was walking the streets of my neighborhood, heading to work, or going out to a nightclub, it worked. That versatility, combined with the timeless design, made it stand out. The brand embodied what I thought clothing should be: stylish, functional, and aspirational.

What drew me in even more was its popularity. In my community, wearing Ralph Lauren was a statement. It wasn’t just a brand; it was a symbol of status and taste. Owning and wearing Ralph Lauren felt cool. It showed you cared about style but didn’t have to scream for attention. I loved that balance.

When I started working and earning my own money, I made it a point to treat myself to something Ralph Lauren every week. Whether it was a classic polo shirt, an accessory, or a staple tee, each purchase felt like an investment—not just in clothing but in a lifestyle I aspired to. I remember walking into the store, seeing the neatly arranged racks, and feeling like I was participating in something bigger than just shopping. It wasn’t just about what I was buying; it was about what I was becoming.

Ralph Lauren also played a role in my entrepreneurial journey. At one point, I sold a vintage Ralph Lauren polo piece on eBay. It turned out the buyer was someone significant—the lead designer at Ralph Lauren. When I googled the address and the name, I realized it was being sent to one of their buildings in New York City. That moment was surreal. I imagined that piece being added back to their archives, inspiring a new design, or even being studied for its classic craftsmanship. It felt like I had contributed, in a small way, to the legacy of a brand that had already given me so much inspiration.

Ralph Lauren wasn’t just a brand I wore—it was a brand that shaped how I saw fashion. It taught me that clothing could tell a story, make you feel confident, and connect you to something greater. That early love for Ralph Lauren became the foundation of my passion for fashion. It’s a reminder of why I fell in love with clothing in the first place: because the right pieces don’t just make you look good—they make you feel extraordinary.

-Ali