A pioneer of designer jeans, underwear and the wholesome,
all-American look, Calvin Klein is one of the fashion world’s biggest
names - and brands. Born in 1942, Calvin Klein taught himself how to
sketch and sew as a boy. He went on to win a place at New York’s High
School of Art and Design and the Fashion Institute of Technology and
finally launched his own label, in partnership with childhood friend Barry
Schwartz, in 1968.
Dubbed ‘Calvin the
Conqueror’ by WWD and listed as one of America’s 25 most
influential people by Time, Klein has helped shaped the casualwear
industry and played a key role in modern advertising - causing a storm of
controversy when he had Richard Avedon photograph a pubescent Brooke
Shields for his 1979 jeans campaign under the slogan, "You know what
comes between me and my Calvins? Nothing." British waif Kate
Moss was to
follow, helping to launch his unisex perfume cK one, one of nine Klein
perfume lines.
In October 1999, Klein
shocked the fashion world when he announced that he was considering
selling his fashion house. He was, he said, looking to develop his company
“through sale, merger or strategic alliance”. Seven months later,
after reported talks with Tommy Hilfiger and others came to nothing, Klein
confirmed that he had taken his $1 billion fashion house off the market.
The recipient of many industry awards, including America’s Best Designer
of 1993 award, Klein is also on numerous committees, including the Council
of Fashion Designers of America. Now divorced from socialite and
photographer Kelly Klein, he has one daughter, Marci. He presents his
collections in New York.
Part
of the draw of the Calvin Klein frame is its thin, minimalist design.
Wears well inside and out when you purchase a sun clip to compliment your
selection. Calvin Klein frames have a certain "balance" that
makes them look great on everybody. Unisex boardroom style in a classic
eye shape. Sophisticated and mature the 137 is a Calvin Klein standard. A
lightweight marval. When fitted with poycarbonate thin system lenses you
will not know your wearing glasses.
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