In an unexpected move, Calvin Klein chose Veronica Leoni, a well-known independent designer, as its new Creative Director of Collection. Leoni’s hiring indicates “a forthcoming return to the runway,” according to an announcement issued on Thursday by Calvin Klein Inc., a division of PVH Corp.
Leoni’s Collection, which will launch in the fall of 2025 and feature clothing, accessories, and undergarments for both men and women, may have its runway premiere in February of 2025 in New York.
One of the most recognizable fashion brands in America, Calvin Klein, hasn’t done a live runway presentation since splitting with designer Raf Simons in 2018.
“To have the chance to pen a new chapter in the Calvin Klein saga fills me with joy and honor. Calvin Klein defined fearless self-expression for many years, and I’m ready to strengthen it with a focus on flair and originality. Leoni, who will answer directly to Eva Serrano, President of Global Brands at Calvin Klein, expressed her gratitude to Serrano for her vision and confidence.
“She is one of the most amazing people in fashion that I have had the honor of meeting during my career. “I express my gratitude to PVH CEO Stefan Larsson for providing this incredible occasion to honor one of the most significant American fashion brands,” continued Leoni.
Leoni, the creator of the avant-garde Quira brand and a 2023 LVMH Prize nominee, will contribute her knowledge from working at several prestigious fashion businesses to Calvin Klein. Among them are The Row, Jil Sander, Chanel, and Moncler… As Creative Director of Collection, the New York-based house stated in a statement that “she will merge her deep industry expertise with the modern aesthetic of Calvin Klein to design the ultimate representation of the brand, while partnering with Eva Serrano to bring inspiration from Collection to the mainline portfolio and the red carpet.”
“Veronica is our Creative Director of Collection—the ultimate representation of the Calvin Klein brand—and we are thrilled to have her on board,” Serrano stated. “Veronica’s life’s work had evidently been preparing her for this moment and the chance to usher in a new era for Calvin Klein, as our initial chats made evident. Her deliberate approach to design and work ethic, along with our common values, will undoubtedly enhance our renowned brand and produce a collection that appeals to our global customer base.
The hiring of Leoni is a critical strategic move for Calvin Klein, a brand that has faltered in the absence of a compelling designer. The company’s founder, who opened it in 1968 and is widely seen as the maestro of American minimalism, oversaw the development of an iconic label throughout his four decades at the helm. Francisco Costa was a capable successor to him in 2003 when he sold out for $730 million to PVH. Simons succeeded him, and his term concluded with a great deal of animosity.
For Calvin Klein, a company that has struggled without a standout designer, hiring Leoni is a crucial strategic decision. During his forty years at the company’s head, the creator, who launched it in 1968 and is regarded as the master of American minimalism, supervised the creation of an iconic label. When he sold out for $730 million to PVH in 2003, Francisco Costa was a worthy successor. He was followed by Simons, whose tenure ended in a great deal of hostility.
