Will Calvin Klein’s new director make big changes?

Raf Simons has a sixth sense for anticipating the next big thing in fashion.
Today, news broke that Simons, 48, will be stepping into the role of chief creative officer at Calvin Klein, granting him unifying control over all design aspects of the business.
Previously, he held creative director positions at Jil Sander and LVMH’s Dior.
Models from Raf’s Christian Dior Resort 2016 collection staged in Massif de L’Esterel, France
This announcement comes at a pivotal moment in fashion, when men’s and women’s style is becoming increasingly conjoined and see-now-buy-now fashion shows are disrupting the traditional retail model.
With those shifts in mind, the PVH-owned brand has high hopes for Simons in his new powerful role, where he will oversee menswear and womenswear runway collections, underwear, fragrance, and home goods.
According to a statement from Calvin Klein, the company’s goal is to grow their global sales to $10 billion, from $8.1 billion in 2014.
The brand’s past successes have been largely due to commercially salable categories, though, such as underwear and fragrances, which isn’t exactly a strength of Simons’.
Raf with actress Maggie Gyllenhaal outside his Dior Cruise 2015 show at the Brooklyn Navy Yard
But his appointment wasn’t random. The minimalist master has a reputation for excellence and innovation. He has received praise from virtually every corner of the industry — from editors to buyers to designers — that might be considered competitors. Simons’ luminary status is undeniable, but the looming question remains: Will he be able to translate hishighbrow ideas to the masses?
Calvin Klein’s classic sensibility paired with Simons’ minimal design aesthetic is the perfect marriage; however, we will have to wait and see if his creative vision will be as well-received as his past efforts.

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