After a six-year absence, Calvin Klein’s return to New York Fashion Week demonstrated that minimalist elegance is far from being outdated. Under the guidance of Veronica Leoni, the brand’s first female creative director, the Autumn/Winter 2025 collection heralded a bold new chapter for the iconic label - one that harmoniously merges the signature sleekness of Calvin Klein with a softer, more sensual edge.
The collection embraced the power of simplicity, offering wardrobe staples elevated with intricate attention to detail. Leoni successfully blended feminine, refined touches with Calvin Klein's renowned clean lines, creating a modern yet nostalgic aesthetic. The runway featured relaxed tailoring, delicate slip dresses, and intimate knitted henleys, all evoking a sense of quiet sophistication that felt timeless.
Kendall Jenner and other prominent models strutted down the runway in weightless, expertly tailored silhouettes. Leoni explored three distinct shapes - slim and narrow, loose and cropped, and draping and enveloping - each evoking a different kind of freedom and grace. The garments moved effortlessly, presenting a perfect balance of fluidity and structure.
The minimal colour palette, dominated by blacks, greys, and off-whites, heightened the subtle elegance of the collection. Tactile fabrics added depth and texture, enhancing the quiet luxury that Calvin Klein is known for.
The atmosphere at the show was electric. The House's original muses Kate Moss and Christy Turlington were in attendance, and even Klein himself made an appearance to show his full support for Leoni’s debut collection.
In the midst of a rapidly evolving industry, Leoni’s collection was a refreshing antidote to the noise. The clothes spoke to a quieter, more considered kind of luxury, offering timeless pieces that transcend trends. With this return to the runway, Calvin Klein proves that it is back at the forefront of fashion, more relevant and refined than ever.
