Fashion designer Ralph Lauren to become a knight

The 79-year-old is set to become an Honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE).

“In his storied career in fashion, business, and philanthropy, Mr. Lauren has played a key role in forging transatlantic cultural and economic connections,” said Antony Phillipson, British Consul General to New York in a press release.

Though notable countrymen like Ronald Reagan, Michael Bloomberg and Steven Spielberg have also been recognized, Lauren will be the first American fashion designer to receive the honour.

He will be presented with the knighthood during a ceremony next year.

“As creator and visionary of the Ralph Lauren brand worldwide, Mr. Lauren has been a vanguard for the global fashion industry and American style for nearly half a century,” Phillipson added.

“In addition, monumental philanthropic efforts, especially in the realm of public health, cancer research and treatment in both the US and the UK, have led to benefits felt by citizens around the world.”