Designer Focus - Calvin Klein

Calvin Klein is an all-American designer who created a brand that sold a lifestyle to his followers. From sexy male underwear to pillows and understated fashion garments, Calvin Klein was and still is the name on everyone’s lips. The Calvin Klein brand launched in 1968 and since had many fashion triumphs under his belt. As well as making fashion more accessible in a way, Calvin has also stirred some uproar with ad campaigns. One of the most commonly recognised for its controversy edge was the 1979 jeans campaign featuring Brooke Shields and the eye catching slogan, “You know what comes between me and my Calvins? Nothing”.


Quick facts:

• In 1193 Calvin made mens underwear sexy with the help of Marky Mark modelling a pair of boxers under a pair of jeans, just showing the ‘brand’ name on the waist band.
• Calvin Klein was once married to socialite and photographer Kelly Klein, in which they have a daughter, Marci.
• The Calvin Klein brand is so strong it is as recognisable as Pepsi.
• For the 25^th anniversary of the brand, actor Djimon Hounsou modelled Calvin Klein underpants, which was found across many billboards.
• In 2002 Calvin Klein sold up for $739 (£373) million.

In 2003, after selling the brand, Brazilian-born Francisco Costa took over as creative director and has created a new direction, focusing on a minimalist attention to detail. Costa has since won the 2006 CFDA Award – which was once won by Calvin himself in 1993 and 1987.