Designer Ralph Lauren Asks Aspiring Designer Kanye West: ‘Who’s Your Daddy?’

It was one of the most endearing moments at New York Fashion Week captured for eternity on Instagram – legendary designer Ralph Lauren stroking a smitten Kanye West on the cheek.

Kanye West would not have missed his fashion idol’s show at New York Fashion Week for the world. Clearly, it was a magical and defining moment for the superstar-cum-fashion designer.

“Do you know what he said when he [touched my cheek]? ‘This is my son,’ ” an incredulous West told the New York Times, “And I was thinking, ‘I knew it! I knew Ralph was my daddy!’ ” West says in the T Magazine profile.

West has never been one to mince his words – or actions. Whether it was famously dissing Taylor Swift at the 2009 MTV Music Video Awards, or comparing himself to Steve Jobs and Jesus Christ, West is known for his quotable moments.

And now — like father, like son — West is sharing ambitious plans to follow his fictional daddy’s footsteps, creating “the biggest apparel company in human history.” If West was waiting for a paternal blessing to pursue his latest endeavor, it came in the way of Ralph Lauren’s words and affectionate gesture.

Before Kanye West was thrust into the limelight – his uniform consisted of well-constructed pieces from Polo. Although today he can bathe in high-end couture, he’ll never forget those humble beginnings.

West recently debuted his latest sportswear collection, Yeezy Season 1, at New York Fashion Week. West produced Yeezy in collaboration with sportswear giant Adidas.

Although the show and his collection received mixed reviews – the aspiring designer is certain his trademark brand will further his already indelible mark in history.

“It’s literally like.?.?. I know this is really harsh, but it’s like Before Yeezy and After Yeezy,” West says in the New York Times profile, “This is the new Rome!”

West is not the first — and probably not the last — to capitalize on fame and name recognition and produce a fashion line. Jay Z has his Rocawear, Sean Combs has Sean Jean, and Jennifer Lopez has her own label, as does Jessica Simpson, Gwen Stefani (L.A.M.B), and Beyonce (House of Dereon).

But West’s lofty goal of conquering the fashion world may not be far off.

Teaming up with his mega reality star wife, Kim Kardashian — whose massive self-made family empire includes boutique clothing and accessory line DASH, one can only guess what comes next — worldwide domination?

[Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Adidas]