The fashion world continues to be in a whirlwind of change with the appointments and resignations of several creative directors. One of the latest reported was Maria Grazia Chiuri for Christian Dior. Dior’s former creative director was Raf Simons. There has been much speculation over what Simons’ next move would be. After plenty of talk and pondering, WWD reports that it will soon be confirmed that he will take over at Calvin Klein.
Because of a non-compete clause in Raf Simons’ contract with Dior, he was unable to officially join the Calvin Klein team. Finally, his contract has come to an end. He has already moved to New York and begun the first steps in his new position. We can look forward to his first collection to be Fall 2017. It will be interesting to see what Simons’ does at this new brand, going from feminine, romantic Dior to American, sophisticated Calvin Klein.
Simons will be assuming much more responsibility in his new role. He will oversee the label’s entire creative department. This includes men’s and women’s collections, fragrances, accessories, and more. He will also be responsible for the advertising. All of Calvin Klein Inc.’s multiple creative directors will directly report to Simons. He’s definitely taking on more than he was accountable for at Dior.
Following from Lisa Lockwood from WWD.com
Senior Vice President and fashion director of Neiman Marcus, Ken Downing, said to WWD, “I think that Raf has all the sensibilities to make Calvin the powerhouse that it was 10, 20 years ago. I think that people are really excited about the rebirth of such an iconic, American brand.” Raf Simons’ appointment is one that the industry has been completely supportive of. Calvin Klein, himself, has even given his blessing. The entire fashion community is anticipating NYFW in February to see what he does in his very first collection.
