Raf Simons has officially been appointed chief creative officer at Calvin Klein.
Raf Simons
The 48-year-old Belgian fashion designer - who was the former creative director at the designer fashion house Christian Dior - has been confirmed as the new replacement of Francisco Costa, who left the brand in April this year, and it is believed the new addition will open up a "momentous new chapter" for the longstanding company.
Speaking about the new takeover on the brand's Facebook page, the CEO of Calvin Klein, Steve Shiffman, said: "The arrival of Raf Simons as chief creative officer signifies a momentous new chapter for Calvin Klein."
Although Raf was rumoured to be at the helm of the brand he was unable to confirm the upcoming position because of his year-long-non-compete clause with the French retailer, however it has now been announced Raf will take control of the design and marketing aspects for Calvin Klein Collection, Calvin Klein Platinum, Calvin Klein, Calvin Klein Jeans, Calvin Klein Underwear and their home line.
The brand said: "As part of his role as chief creative officer, Mr Simons will oversee all aspects of design, global marketing and communications, and visual creative services. Mr. Simons's first collections will debut for the fall 2017 season."
And the creative team at Calvin Klein are "confident" Raf will be able to make a positive impact on the company.
Steve explained: "Not since Mr. Klein himself was at the company has it been led by one creative visionary, and I am confident that this decision will drive the Calvin Klein brand and have a significant impact on its future. Raf's exceptional contributions have shaped and modernized fashion as we see it today and, under his direction, Calvin Klein will further solidify its position as a leading global lifestyle brand."
Raf has even been given the seal of approval of the brand's eponymous founder.
Speaking previously, the 73-year-old American Fashion designer said: "They are doing something that I had hoped they would have done, which is replace me. Find someone who can with a singular vision oversee everything that is creative. They won't announce who it is publicly because it's under contract. But the whole industry knows."
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