Veronica Leoni unveiled her most ambitious collection for Calvin Klein on Friday, showcasing the Fall 2026 lineup in an intimate setting at The McCourt within The Shed at Hudson Yards. The arrangement of red folding chairs created a circular atmosphere that resonated with the collection’s themes, paralleling the brand’s evolving identity within the luxury fashion market. Rather than being sold at the newly opened SoHo flagship, Calvin Klein Collection aims for exclusivity through global retail partnerships such as Net-a-porter, Holt Renfrew, and Mytheresa, positioning itself as a high-end representation of American fashion.
Leoni’s design inspiration was influenced by the brand’s archival campaigns from the late 1970s and early 1980s, marking a significant return to Calvin Klein’s roots. “I wanted to start the season fighting the stereotypical perception we all have about Calvin, and I am possibly part of it as a child of the ’90s,” she stated, emphasizing a deeper exploration of the brand’s foundational elegance and minimalism. The collection featured long, sleek tailoring and playful elements, such as sheerbacks revealing the iconic Calvin Klein logo underneath.
The lineup offered a compelling range of styles, merging sharp minimalism with a fascination for the human form. Among the highlights were body-conscious pieces like wool jersey “muscle” T-shirts paired with tailored pants, as well as more conventional options like sculptural outerwear and neutral tailoring that catered to diverse tastes. Leoni’s designs upheld the balance between showcasing skin and elevating classic wardrobe staples.
Among the standout pieces was a reimagined version of the original 1976 Calvin Klein jeans, created to celebrate the brand’s upcoming 50th anniversary. This homage to the past reflects a thoughtful approach to modern luxury, merging heritage with contemporary relevance. “It was a very intelligent and smart take from Mr. Klein,” Leoni noted, emphasizing the significance of reintroducing these classic elements to the collection.
The show drew an impressive crowd, including past campaign stars such as Brooke Shields and Blackpink’s Jennie, further connecting Leoni’s vision of Calvin Klein’s legacy to its future. Through this collection, Leoni not only honors the brand’s storied history but also impressively carves out a modern narrative, revitalizing the iconic fashion label for a new generation. The blend of nostalgic inspiration with contemporary chic underscores a hopeful outlook for Calvin Klein, as it continues to evolve in the ever-changing landscape of luxury fashion.