Michael Kors is one of the most famous and successful fashion designers in the world. His name stands for a luxurious and elegant style that is worn by celebrities like Michelle Obama, Jennifer Lopez or Kate Middleton. But how did he become what he is today? How did he build his brand and what inspires him? In this article we take a look at the biography and career of Michael Kors.
Michael Kors was born Karl Anderson Jr. on August 9, 1959, on Long Island, New York. When he was five years old, his parents divorced and his mother married businessman Bill Kors, who gave him his current last name. As a child, he showed an interest in fashion and designed clothes for his mother and grandmother. He attended John F. Kennedy High School in Bellmore, New York, where he also worked as a model.
After graduating from high school, he began studying at the renowned Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, but dropped out after two semesters to devote himself entirely to his passion. He got a job as a salesman at the Lothar’s boutique on Fifth Avenue, where he also offered his own designs. His talent did not go unnoticed and he was soon promoted to creative director of the store.
In 1981, he founded his own label under his name and presented his first collection of women’s clothing. His style was characterized by simple cuts, neutral colors and luxurious materials that exuded timeless elegance. He called it “sporty luxury fashion” himself. He quickly became a favorite of fashion critics and customers who found his clothes practical and flattering.
In the years that followed, he expanded his empire to include shoes, bags, accessories, fragrances and menswear. Michael Kors was one of the judges in the popular television show Project Runway from 2004 to 2013. He opened several flagship stores in major fashion capitals like New York, London or Paris and cooperated with stars like Gwyneth Paltrow or Heidi Klum for advertising campaigns.
Michael Kors is not only a successful businessman, but also a committed philanthropist. He supports various charitable organizations such as God’s Love We Deliver, AIDS research or the UN World Food Organization. He has received several awards for his work, including the CFDA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.
Michael Kors is a designer who shaped and embodied the jet-set lifestyle. His fashion is inspired by his love of travel, art and pop culture. He says himself, “I want to design clothes that make women feel glamorous.” With his flair for trends and sense of quality, he has secured a firm place for himself in the fashion world.
