Ralph Lauren Corporation (NYSE: RL) is a luxury clothing and goods company of the American fashion designer Ralph Lauren. Ralph Lauren specializes in high-end casual/semi-formal wear for men and women, as well as accessories, fragrances, home (bedding, towels) and housewares. It has its headquarters in Midtown Manhattan, New York City.The brand was launched in 1967 when Ralph Lauren, born Ralph Lifshitz, received a $50,000 loan and started a line of men's ties. Prior to starting Ralph Lauren, he worked for Datrian Riser. By 1969 he had a boutique store within the Manhattan department store Bloomingdale's. Around that same time he released a line of women's suits that were tailored in a classic men's style, which was when the firstPolo emblem was seen. It was on the cuff of the women's suit.