Calvin Klein has officially set the stage for a game-changing return to New York Fashion Week 2025, and the buzz couldn’t be louder. Under the visionary leadership of Veronica Leoni, the brand’s newly appointed creative director, Calvin Klein Collection is poised to redefine contemporary fashion with a striking balance of innovation and heritage. The latest campaign featuring models Viktoria Fox and Ivan Zhukau embodies this bold renaissance, offering a tantalizing preview of what’s to come.
The campaign’s black-and-white imagery, captured masterfully by photographer Georgina Vaughan, evokes the raw sensuality and refined elegance that Calvin Klein is known for. Fox and Zhukau’s smoldering chemistry takes center stage in a racy yet sophisticated portrayal of the brand’s iconic minimalism. Fox, represented by William Morris Endeavor (WME), brings her commanding presence and signature glamour to the campaign, while Zhukau, a Las Vegas-based athlete, injects an air of athletic vitality and modern masculinity.
A New Chapter with Veronica Leoni
Veronica Leoni’s debut as creative director marks a transformative moment for Calvin Klein. With a background in pushing boundaries while honoring tradition, Leoni’s vision for the brand is as daring as it is thoughtful. “This is a new era,” she shared in a recent press release. “Calvin Klein has always been about provocative minimalism, and my goal is to amplify that spirit in a way that resonates with today’s global audience.”
Leoni’s appointment signals a pivot toward creativity and experimentation, ensuring Calvin Klein remains a leader in the ever-evolving fashion landscape. Her ability to balance timeless silhouettes with forward-thinking design is evident in the campaign’s evocative imagery—a perfect synergy of boldness and restraint.
A Milestone for NYFW and the Industry
The return of Calvin Klein Collection to the New York Fashion Week schedule is not just a triumph for the brand but also a pivotal moment for the global fashion industry. Steven Kolb, CEO of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), lauded the comeback: “This iconic brand has been an integral part of shaping American fashion, pushing boundaries with its bold take on minimalism. We are excited to have them back on the official NYFW schedule and look forward to celebrating the brand’s latest chapter.”
New York Fashion Week, which has long been a cornerstone of global fashion, will undoubtedly gain renewed energy from Calvin Klein’s participation. The event’s return to form, with Calvin Klein as a headline act, solidifies its place as a platform for creativity, innovation, and boundary-breaking style.
The Campaign: A Celebration of Iconic Heritage and Modern Sensuality
The 2025 campaign underscores everything Calvin Klein stands for—unapologetic sensuality, modernity, and a deep reverence for the human form. The models wear the brand’s signature underwear, their striking poses and raw connection amplifying the understated power of the designs. Vaughan’s lens captures every detail with stunning precision, ensuring the campaign feels both intimate and grand.
Fox’s career trajectory, as one of WME’s standout talents, continues to soar, while Zhukau’s athletic background brings an authentic edge to the imagery. Together, they embody a bold and modern aesthetic that speaks to Calvin Klein’s continued relevance. Other models selected for the One Essence campaign include actor and model Jeremy Allen White, Mathilda Gvarliani, Noor Mutsaers, Kit Butler, Abby Champion, and Blesnya Minher.
The Future of Calvin Klein
As the fashion world eagerly anticipates Calvin Klein’s NYFW presentation, it’s clear the brand’s future under Veronica Leoni is brighter than ever. By embracing its iconic heritage while looking boldly to the future, Calvin Klein is not just reclaiming its place on the fashion stage—it’s redefining it.
Photography by: Courtesy of Georgina Vaughan