Calvin Klein, the designer who revolutionized the fashion industry with his jeans and underwear designs, is celebrated in this article through 10 photographs. Klein, who started his career in the Bronx, built an empire around his own name and changed the way people thought about fashion. He began his journey in the late 1960s, designing classic coats and suits, and soon caught the attention of major department store Bonwit Teller, marking the first major deal for his young brand.
Klein co-founded the eponymous brand with childhood friend Barry Schwartz in 1968. While Schwartz took care of the economic and strategic aspects of the brand, Klein focused on the creative side. In the 1970s, he launched a campaign to bring jeans back into the closets of Americans, turning them from cheap hippie clothing to urban streetwear. The straight cut, tight fit, and visible Calvin Klein logo on the back pocket became iconic elements of his jeans.
Klein was a frequent guest at the scandalous New York club Studio 54, socializing with the American bohemian crowd of the time. In 1980, he faced criticism for a provocative campaign featuring a 15-year-old Brooke Shields, accused of sexualizing minors. Undeterred, Klein went on to create a new line of underwear that was stylish and comfortable, catering to young, athletic individuals. The collection featured cotton models with the recognizable Calvin Klein logo waistband.
In 1992, Kate Moss became the face of Calvin Klein, bringing a fresh perspective to the brand with her unconventional beauty compared to other popular models at the time. The brand also expanded into sportswear, with the Calvin Klein Jeans Spring-Summer 1992 collection showcasing athletic apparel.
Klein's personal life also made headlines, including his marriage to Kelly Rector, his personal assistant for several years. They tied the knot in Rome in 1986 and stayed together for 20 years before divorcing in 2006. Rumors suggest that marrying Kelly played a role in Klein's shift away from the nightlife scene and clubbing.
In recognition of his contribution to the fashion world, Klein was awarded an honorary doctorate in Fine Arts at the Fashion Institute of Technology in 2003. Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue, supported and spoke at the ceremony.
This article provides a glimpse into the life and career of Calvin Klein, a designer who reshaped the fashion landscape with his iconic jeans and influential underwear designs.
