Michael Kors

American fashion designer Michael Kors makes headlines with his sleek and chic designs, but he is equally noted for his time on the popular reality series Project Runway.

Karl Anderson Jr, known popularly as Michael Kors, was born August 9, 1959 in Long Island, New York. His mother was model Joan Krystosek Kors, from whom he took his now-famous last name. Raised in a Jewish household, Kors had a traditional Bar Mitzvah.

By age nineteen, Kors knew fashion was the direction he wanted to take his life. It was at this age he began tinkering with clothing design, and he pursued that passion further at the Fashion Institute of Technology located in New York City.

By 1981, Kors’ fresh take on simple but elegant womenswear landed him a line at the prestigious retailers Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, and Lord & Taylor.

A massive success, Kors’ name began carrying weight in the fashion world. He took those credentials and channeled it into a menswear line. Kors once stated his desire to design menswear as stemming from his own inability to find a simple well-made pair of gray trousers and a quality cashmere sweater. The process began in 1998, and by 2002 the line hit the shelves.

Much like his womenswear line, the project, which includes peacoats, numerous sweaters, and tailored trousers, was and continues to be a huge success.

Other notable accomplishments in Kors’ career include a stint as creative director at the fashion house Celine. Taking over in 1997, his accessories and ready-to-wear line were extremely well-received. By 2003, after a blockbuster tenure at the establishment, Kors left to pursue his signature brand.

Expanding his business, additional bridge lines include MICHAEL and KORS, which were both developed in 2004.

Winning an avalanche of awards, new designers clamor to work with the decorated artist. These up and comers include Derek Lam, Peter Som, and Lazaro Hernandez at the express recommendation of Anna Wintour.

Attracting a slew of celebrity followers, Kors’ designs have been sported by Catherine Zeta Jones, Jennifer Lopez, Joan Allen, Jennifer Garner, Sharon Stone, Liv Tyler, Gwyneth Paltrow, and countless others.

Increasing his visibility with the public, Kors is currently a judge on the hit series Project Runway with host Heidi Klum. Fashion expert Tim Gunn is also involved, and Nina Garcia is the other staple judge.

In his personal life, Kors is a strong advocate for gay and lesbian rights and is himself openly gay. He was even featured in the 2006 biography television program The Out 100.