Lauren White

Ricky Ann Lauren, born Ricky Ann Loew-Beer in 1943, is an American author, artist, photographer, and psychotherapist. Raised in New York City by Austrian immigrant parents, she met her future husband, Ralph Lauren, while working part-time. After marrying in 1964, she initially supported her husband's burgeoning fashion career, acting as a muse and hostess. She later pursued her own professional path, earning a degree and practicing as a psychotherapist after her children were school-aged.

Lauren has authored several books, primarily focusing on lifestyle and cookbooks, often reflecting her interest in a casual, Western-inspired way of life. Her photographic work has also been featured in her books, including one that supported the World Wildlife Fund. Alongside her husband, she has been involved in philanthropic endeavors, including establishing a cancer center and a performing arts center. She currently resides in multiple locations, including New York City and Colorado.

Ricky Ann Lauren is recognized for her work as an author, artist, and photographer, with a particular focus on lifestyle and culinary themes. Her book, "Cuisine, Lifestyle, and Legend of the Double RL Ranch," has been described as a tribute to the ranch that inspired her husband's fashion empire, blending history and recipes with a visual narrative. This work, along with others, showcases her appreciation for a relaxed lifestyle and simple, Western-style cooking. Her photographic talents are evident in her book "Safari," which documented a trip to Africa and included proceeds that benefited the World Wildlife Fund. She also authored "The Hamptons: Food, Family and History" and "My Island."

Beyond her creative pursuits, Lauren has played a significant role in supporting her husband's career and engaging in charitable activities. She has been described as a "silent partner" in his fashion endeavors, attending industry events and hosting gatherings. The couple jointly established a cancer center at North General Hospital in Harlem and founded the Ralph and Ricky Lauren Center for the Performing Arts at the Lexington School for the Deaf. Ralph Lauren has frequently cited her as his muse, noting that his design aesthetic, particularly for women's clothing, was influenced by her personal style and her search for practical, yet fashionable attire that suited her petite build.

Born Ricky Ann Loew-Beer, she grew up in New York City, the daughter of Austrian immigrants. She studied English at Hunter College and later returned to pursue a career in psychotherapy after raising her children. She married Ralph Lauren on December 20, 1964. The couple has three children: Andrew, David, and Dylan. Their early married life included residences in Southampton and Long Island, and they later acquired the Double RL Ranch in Colorado in 1982, which remains a significant family property. Lauren also pursued photography studies after her marriage.