American fashion giant Calvin Klein is ushering in a new era by appointing Veronica Leoni as its first female Creative Director of Collection. Known for her minimalist designs and impeccable tailoring, Leoni is set to breathe new life into the brand’s luxury segment, including women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, underwear, and accessories. Her debut runway show is scheduled for the Fall 2025 season.
Leoni, an Italian designer and founder of the label Quira, boasts an impressive background. She has previously held influential roles at Céline under Phoebe Philo, Jil Sander, The Row, and Moncler. Her extensive experience and minimalist aesthetic make her an ideal fit for Calvin Klein, a brand renowned for its sleek and sensual designs. This marks the first time in five years that Calvin Klein has had a dedicated creative director, with Leoni following in the footsteps of notable predecessors such as Raf Simons and Francisco Costa.
Eva Serrano, Calvin Klein’s Global Brand President, expressed her confidence in Leoni’s vision and capabilities. “It was clear from our first conversations that Veronica’s life work had been preparing her for this moment and the opportunity to define a new era for Calvin Klein,” Serrano remarked. “I am confident that her purposeful approach to design and work ethic, combined with our shared values, will further enrich our iconic brand and result in a collection that resonates with consumers around the world.”
Leoni herself is enthusiastic about the opportunity to shape the future of Calvin Klein. “For decades, Calvin Klein interpreted the idea of bold self-expression, and I am willing to empower it with a strong accent on style and creativity,” she stated.
Revitalizing Calvin Klein, a brand that has experienced a hiatus in its runway collections, presents both challenges and opportunities. The balance between honoring the brand’s storied past and appealing to contemporary tastes will be crucial. Calvin Klein has historically excelled at blending product and runway, merging mass appeal with high fashion. The brand’s founder was known for using powerful imagery to sell both his clothes and his vision, creating an enduring sense of chic sensuality.
In today’s fashion landscape, evoking such strong emotional connections is rare. Leoni’s task will be to bridge the gap between the brand’s illustrious history and modern sensibilities. With a woman now steering the creative direction, there’s a promising sense of renewal. This appointment is not just about optics; it represents a meaningful shift towards inclusivity and a fresh perspective on the brand’s celebrated design ethos.
Leoni’s leadership could signify a bold new chapter for Calvin Klein, potentially setting a new standard in American fashion and reaffirming the brand’s commitment to innovative, sensual design.