Calvin Klein (b. 1942)

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Biography

Calvin Richard Klein is an American fashion designer. In 1968, he launched the company that later became Calvin Klein. In addition to clothing, he has also given his name to a range of perfumes, watches, and jewellery.

Timeline

The story of Calvin Klein, told in moments.

1962 Life

Started an apprenticeship at Dan Millstein, an old-line cloak-and-suit manufacturer. Five years cutting patterns and learning the business.

Did five years cutting patterns at Dan Millstein teach you more than design school could? Was the apprenticeship patience or purgatory?

1968 Event

Launched his own company with $10,000 from childhood friend Barry Schwartz, working out of a hotel room. A Bonwit Teller buyer spotted his coat designs and placed an order on the spot.

Was starting with $10,000 from a childhood friend the purest form of partnership? Did the Bonwit Teller buyer's reaction tell you everything?

1978 Event

Introduced Calvin Klein Jeans. The ad campaign featuring 15-year-old Brooke Shields saying "Nothing comes between me and my Calvins" became one of the most controversial in fashion history.

Was Brooke Shields at fifteen saying 'Nothing comes between me and my Calvins' genius or exploitation? Did the controversy help or hurt the brand?

2003 Event

Sold the Calvin Klein brand to Phillips-Van Heusen for $430 million. His name stayed on the label. He didn't.

Was selling for $430 million freedom or loss? Does your name on a label without you feel strange?

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Explore what happened on the days that shaped Calvin Klein's life. Today In History connects historical figures with the events, births, and deaths that defined their era. Browse all historical figures or explore today's events.