The brand is closing its high-end line, in a move that could have domino effects on the American fashion industry. This American brand was founded in 1994 by the designer of the same name, Rick Owens. Since then, the clothing brand has expanded its core audience through impressive urban clothing collections. See, for example, Lupita Nyong'o with Calvin Klein with purple beads on the red carpet at the Golden Globes and Lady Gaga in a blush pink strapless column at the Critics' Choice Awards.
The former CEO of Calvin Klein, Tom Murry, used to refer to the runway as a “marketing expense”. That company also has a license to sell ready-to-wear, accessories, outerwear, swimwear and Calvin Klein dresses in North America. A Calvin Klein spokeswoman said the brand would continue to work with celebrities, but another question is whether those celebrities will want to remain associated with a brand once the glamor of creative credibility disappears. Following the success of CK One, Calvin Klein launched CK be in 1996, consolidating its role in the emergence and expansion of unisex fragrances.
