Fashion Mogul Ralph Lauren Steps Down, Names Successor
Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky
By Maia Efrem September 29, 2015
The king of fashion is dead(ish), long live the new king.
After 48 years, Ralph Lauren, the man behind the quintessential look of American fashion, is stepping down.
Lauren surprised many today when he announced he is bowing out as CEO of Ralph Lauren Corp. His handpicked choice, Stefan Larsson, will replace him. Larsson, 41, made his name as part of the H&M team that so swiftly expanded in the United States before taking over as president of Gap’s Old Navy branch. Lauren will stay on as the company’s executive chairman and chief creative officer, but to The New York Times: “When they start designing things I can’t understand, I’ll quit,”
Image by Instagram
In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Larsson said he and Lauren “connected in five minutes,” and that his accomplished predecessor “surprised me by being so focused on growth.”
Image by Instagram
Born Ralph Lifshitz to Jewish immigrant parents from Pinsk, Belarus, the Bronx boy, who will celebrate his 76th birthday October 14, became known as “the man who dresses America.” Lauren’s iconic styles brought cowboy chic to every department store, and plaid into every closet. Here’s hoping the fashion line’s iconic look doesn’t change.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
