Designer Ralph Lauren receives honorary UK knighthood from Queen Elizabeth

Ralph Lauren might be one of the most iconic American designers, but that doesn't stop his sartorial influences from extending far beyond the United States.

The legendary creative, who's valued at almost $7 billion since starting the Ralph Lauren Corporation 50 years ago, is set to become the first American fashion designer to receive a knighthood by the queen. The exciting announcement was made by the British Consulate General on Wednesday morning.

"I warmly congratulate Ralph Lauren on this award that recognizes these efforts and achievements over the past 50 years," explained Anthony Phillipson, Her Majesty's Trade Commissioner for North America, in the announcement. "In his storied career in fashion, business, and philanthropy, Mr. Lauren has played a key role in forging transatlantic cultural and economic connections."

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He continued: "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. 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.”

Ralph Lauren with Princess Diana at a White House dinner, 1996. (Getty)

Lauren, 79, has a long relationship with the monarchy and is behind some of their most iconic looks, including Princess Diana's white halter gown, seen above. The designer has also dressed Duchess Kate and Duchess Meghan for a number of engagements.

Queen Elizabeth will present the esteemed designer with the Honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) in a ceremony next year.

See more of the designer throughout his career: