Ralph Lauren was hailed as the "epitome of the American dream" as his eponymous fashion line turned 50.

Jessica Chastain at the Ralph Lauren show

Jessica Chastain at the Ralph Lauren show

Ralph hosted a show and a gala dinner at the Bethesda Terrace fountain in Manhattan's Central Park in New York City at the weekend as part of New York Fashion Week to celebrate the landmark anniversary.

The star-studded guest list included Anne Hathaway, Blake Lively, Steven Spielberg, Tom Hiddleston, Lily Aldridge, Jessica Chastain and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley among others and many of them took time out to praise Ralph, 78, for his achievements in the fashion world.

'Molly's Game' star Jessica, 41, recalled a story Ralph told her about starting out as a young designer in the city and insisted his ascension to the top of his profession encapsulated what the American dream is.

She said: "The 50th anniversary of Ralph Lauren and how wonderful to be in New York because I remember he told me a story about how he began in New York City making ties. You know his clothes remind me of, they have such an American feel to them, but he really is the epitome of the American Dream when you think about it so it's beautiful to be here in Central Park."

'The Shallows' actress Blake, 31, thought the best part of the event was Ralph's family reaction to his historic collection and the love they had for each other.

She said: "The collection was just one of the most stunning collections I've ever seen and the most beautiful part was seeing Ralph's family and seeing Ralph's family looking at him.

"Which is amazing because there's so much spectacle happening and like who knew you could make Central Park look more amazing but they have, they've dressed up Central Park somehow.

"The most beautiful thing tonight was really like seeing the love of that family and it's a testament to the brand and why it's so genuine and true and lasting."

'Les Miserables' star Anne, 35, described Ralph as the man who defines what American style is.

She said: "Ralph, love and respect man thanks for having this amazing evening and truly congratulations for the last 50 years. You define American fashion and style and you've made a lot of us dream really big so thank you very much."

Victoria's Secret Angel Lily, 32, also paid her respect to the fashion legend, saying: "Ralph is such an icon and 50 years is such a huge accomplishment and to be in Central Park and be with all these amazing people and kind of see this history of Ralph Lauren unfold before your eyes is pretty incredible."