Raf Simons has stepped down as creative director of Calvin Klein.
The Belgian designer leaves the American fashion house after only two years, four collections and winning several awards. His departure was announced prematurely eight months before his contract expires.
In August 2016 Simons was appointed as Chief Creative Officer of Calvin Klein - a position that had previously not existed and was to give him full creative control over all aspects of the label: an advantage that he had lacked in his previous position as creative director of womenswear at Dior.
Since his appointment Simons made significant changes at Calvin Klein: he transformed the basic collection and the denim line was given a make-over, in which the distinctive Americana style and the origins of the American fashion house were central. During his stint at Calvin Klein Simons won several prizes, such as the prestigious CFDA Designer of the Year Award. He was also honored by the American Folk Art Museum for his use of American heritage within his collections, such as the use of 'quilts'.
The reason for Simons departure is unknown with the brand official and the designer calling the decision a 'friendly' one. However, there has been speculation and criticism, regarding the gap between his runway collections and what Calvin Klein sold.
A successor to Simons has not yet determined and Calvin Klein will not run a runway show as part of the New York Fashion Week in February 2019. For his part, it is believed that Simons will concentrate fully on his own brand.
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