John Varvatos Receives 2012 Spirit of Design Award
The Spirit of Design Award, first given in 2002 to renowned designer Geoffrey Beene, is bestowed to those who have made outstanding contributions to design, the fashion industry and who have served as inspirations to fashion design students and young designers.
“It is a thrill to honor John Varvatos with the 2012 Spirit of Design Award,” said Clara Henry, director of PhilaU’s fashion design program. “As a top menswear designer, he dresses celebrities and rockers and has an uncanny pulse on the street reflected in edgy, urban designs. At Philadelphia University, we encourage students to use their well-honed skills and take creative risks, and John Varvatos is a wonderful example of someone who pushes those boundaries yet is very mindful of his target market.”
Awarded during Philadelphia University’s Fashion Show, this prestigious occasion gives part to The Verizon Philadelphia UniversityEvening of Innovation, presented by PVH Corp. This annual event showcases the visionary and avant-garde student fashion designs. Each year, a standing-room only crowd of students and faculty members, share the excitement with fashion industry experts who turn out for the professionally produced runway show.
With his unique brand position unites a rock n’ roll sensibility and old world craftsmanship with modern innovation, Varvatos has become one of the most well known menswear designers in the world. Admired for reflecting the quality and detail inherent in old world tailoring, he continues to amaze by creating luxurious, comfortable clothing for a modern lifestyle.
“I am honored to be receiving The Spirit of Design Award,” John Varvatos announced. ”Philadelphia University’s Fashion Design program has been a leader in our industry and in preparing students for real-life experiences.”
A Detroit native, Varvatos got his start designing collections at Polo Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein. This two-time Menswear Designer of the Year, is also chairman and chief creative officer of John Varvatos Enterprises. He launched his namesake brand in 2000 with a collection of tailored clothing and sportswear, and it now represents an entire men’s lifestyle collection that includes footwear, bags, belts, eyewear, limited edition watches, men’s fragrances, as well as the younger, edgier John Varvatos « USA Collection and Converse by John Varvatos.
On NBC’s “Fashion Star,” Varvatos is one of three celebrity mentors for 14 aspiring fashion designers. Hosted by supermodel Elle McPherson, designers compete in weekly challenges judged by buyers from top retailers Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue and H&M. Other mentors on the new fashion reality show are Jessica Simpson, singer, actress and fashion industry mogul, and Nicole Ritchie, reality show star and apparel and accessories designer. The winner of the competition will receive $6 million in retail orders to launch their collection. Check out Fashion Star on NBC airing Tuesdays at 10/9c, or http://www.nbc.com/fashion-star/about/ for the latest videos, photos and exclusives.
“John Varvatos is an inspiration and leader in the fashion world and a wonderful example of how important it is to stay true to your own vision and never give up,” said Casey Lamke, ’12, president of Philadelphia University’s Fashion Industries Association student group. “The Spirit of Design Award recognizes leading creative innovators, and John Varvatos definitely fits that bill. Every season, his classically cool menswear lines are effortless and stylish.”
The John Varvatos collection is distributed in freestanding John Varvatos boutiques across the U.S. and online, as well as in better department stores throughout the world. For more information, go to www.johnvarvatos.com or www.facebook.com/johnvarvatos.
