Michael Kors
Michael Kors, the handbag designer and reality TV judge is making headlines after reports say he is buying Versace.
Kors, known for his sports-luxe aesthetic, his tireless charity work and his outgoing personality, reportedly acquired Gianni Versace for $2.1 billion. He will rename the brand Capri Holdings.
But what else do you know about the celebrated designer? Find out more about him on his top facts below.
#1 He picked his own name
Kors was born on August 9, 1959 –as Karl Anderson, but upon his mother re-marrying his step father Bill Kors, his mother gave him the option to change his first name also.
#2 He worked as a model
According to Vogue, the Long Island, New York native worked as a model, appearing in television commercials for breakfast cereal brand Lucky Charms and Charmin’ paper towels.
#3 He knew he wanted to be a designer as a teen
Kors pursued acting lessons, however he gave them up when he was 14 to follow his dream to be a fashion designer.
#4 He didn’t graduate from fashion school
In 1977, he enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, only to leave nine months.
#5 He was given his big break by Dawn Mello
Mello, the former fashion director at Bergdorf Goodman, gave Kors the opportunity to show his collection to the buyers at Bergdorf Goodman. A deal was reached and within three years, Kors’ collections were stocked in all major luxury outlets in America including Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales.
#6 He was also the designer for Celine for six years
Kors was made the designer of the LVMH-owned French fashion house Céline in 1997. He remained at Céline until 2003 when he left to concentrate wholly on his growing eponymous empire.
#7 He had his first runway over three decades ago
Michael saw his first eponymous catwalk show back in 1984.
#8 He also did reality TV
You may also remember Kors as an esteemed judge on the hit US television series Project Runway for five seasons, until December 2012.
#9 Kors also bought Jimmy Choo
In addition to Versace, Kors had already dipped its toes in European fashion last year by buying shoe brand Jimmy Choo for $1.2 billion.
#10 He is married to his longtime partner Lance LaPere
The two met in the 90’s and after more than 20 years of relationship, the eventually married in 2011.
