Renowned men's fashion designer John Varvatos will present "Building the Luxury Brand" at 3:30 p.m. April 4 in the Sue Ann Genet Auditorium in Syracuse University's Slocum Hall, Room 108. The lecture, part of the continuing Genet Lecture Series, is free and open to the public.
A former designer for Polo Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein, Varvatos struck out on his own two years ago with the debut of John Varvatos, a lifestyle collection that focuses on signature detailing and old-world craftsmanship. Comprised of tailored clothing, sportswear, leather accessories and footwear, Varvatos' collection pairs the luxurious with the casual, ultimately creating a look of easy elegance.
A native of Michigan, Varvatos joined Polo Ralph Lauren in 1983. He was recruited by Calvin Klein in 1990 and was appointed head of menswear design, where he was responsible for the launch of the men's collection and the Ck brand. In 1995, he returned to Polo as vice president in charge of men's design for all Polo Ralph Lauren brands. During this period, he created and launched the highly successful Polo Jeans Company.
Varvatos left Polo Ralph Lauren in 1999 and, in the fall of 2000, presented his first collection to critical acclaim and opened his first freestanding store in Soho, New York. He received the 2000 Perry Ellis Award for New Menswear Designer, presented by Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). Plans are underway to open additional John Varvatos stores in major U.S. cities, as well as for retail expansion on an international level.
The Sue Ann Genet Lecture Series is offered by SU's College of Visual and Performing Arts in conjunction with the Genet Gallery for costume, textiles and decorative arts. The series brings prominent speakers to the University from retailing, fashion and design.
