Calvin Klein’s rise to prominence began in the spring of 1968, starting with a simple rack of samples presented to Bonwit Teller & Co. By the end of the year, his designs graced the store’s Fifth Avenue windows, culminating in a remarkable $1 million in sales. His early success signaled the arrival of a major force in the fashion world.
Within five years, Klein earned his first Coty Award in 1973, solidifying his reputation for clean and modern sportswear. His foray into designer jeans, however, propelled him to national fame. Provocative television commercials featuring a young Brooke Shields in Calvin Klein jeans, captured by renowned photographer Richard Avedon, became a cultural phenomenon, driving sales to an astounding 2 million pairs per month.
The iconic “Obsession” fragrance launched in 1985, expanding Klein’s empire beyond apparel. This groundbreaking scent was followed by “Eternity” in 1988, featuring Christy Turlington in ethereal advertisements. Later, the unisex fragrance “CK One” accompanied the launch of Klein’s casual sportswear line, further cementing his brand’s versatile appeal. These campaigns often generated controversy, mirroring the impact of the earlier Avedon/Shields collaborations.
Klein continued to invest heavily in advertising, featuring high-profile models like Kate Moss in campaigns that often pushed boundaries. The pairing of Moss with rapper Marky Mark, known for his provocative stage presence, further amplified the brand’s rebellious image and cemented its connection to popular culture.
In 2003, Calvin Klein and his business partner Barry K. Schwartz sold their company to Phillips-Van Heusen. Shortly after, Francisco Costa, a designer with experience at Oscar de la Renta, took the helm of the women’s ready-to-wear line. Costa maintained Klein’s minimalist philosophy while incorporating his own artistic flair. In August 2016, Raf Simons was appointed chief creative officer, overseeing all aspects of the brand, including women’s and men’s wear, jeans, underwear, and fragrances. This marked a new chapter in the Calvin Klein legacy, with Simons bringing his unique vision to the iconic brand.
