After months of rumors that Raf Simons would head to Calvin Klein after his departure from Dior, the American brand has finally confirmed the news. Calvin Klein, Inc. has appointed Simons its Chief Creative Officer. The Belgian designer will work to unite the fashion house’s various brands that include Calvin Klein Collection, Calvin Klein Platinum, Calvin Klein, Calvin Klein Jeans, Calvin Klein Underwear and Calvin Klein Home. Simons will oversee design, visual creative services, global marketing and communications for Calvin Klein. The designer’s first collection for the label will debut for fall-winter 2017.
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Calvin Klein Inc. CEO, Steve Shiffman discusses Simons’ arrival, sharing, “The arrival of Raf Simons as Chief Creative Officer signifies a momentous new chapter for Calvin Klein. Not since Mr. Klein himself was at the company has it been led by one creative visionary, and I am confident that this decision will drive the Calvin Klein brand and have a significant impact on its future.”
Shiffman continues, “Raf’s exceptional contributions have shaped and modernized fashion as we see it today and, under his direction, Calvin Klein will further solidify its position as a leading global lifestyle brand.” Designer Pieter Mulier will also be assisting Simons in the role of Creative Director. Reporting to Simons, Mulier will execute the designer’s vision for men’s and women’s ready to wear lines, as well as accessories.
