8 Little-Known Facts About Michael Kors
As Michael Kors launches his Spring/Summer 2025 collection, L'OFFICIEL has rounded up some interesting facts about the iconic designer.
From his creative fashion campaigns to his friendships with practically every well-known supermodel, there are few American designers quite as iconic as Michael Kors. Born in Long Island, New York, Kors has shown an affinity for fashion from a young age. During his prolific career, the designer has been the youngest recipient of a CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award, starred in a reality TV show for 16 years, and delivered season after season of elevated-yet-wearable designs for the modern woman.
The designer is obviously revered for his world-famous self-named brand, but Kors' warm personality and determined work ethic make him a beloved figure in the fashion world.
As NYFW slowly comes to a close, Michael Kors is next up to present its Spring/Summer 2025 collection. To celebrate and honor the iconic American designer who has changed so much of the fashion landscape, L'OFFICIEL has rounded up a few interesting facts you may not know about the designer.
Michael Kors was born with a different name.
When he was born, his name was Karl Anderson. However, his mother eventually got remarried, taking his stepfather's last name of Kors and changing his first name to Michael soon after.
Michael Kors starred in several TV ads as a child.
Not known to many, Kors was a child actor and appeared in several TV commercials, including one for the popular children's cereal Lucky Charms.
Michael Kors has always had an eye for fashion.
At just five years old, Kors took it upon himself to redesign his mother's wedding gown. Insisting the dress, which had too many ornaments on it, his mother followed his advice as they got rid of a few bows and cleaned up the dress.
Michael Kors dropped out of FIT
Kors dropped out of the Fashion Institute of Technology to enter the design world head-first and showcase his collections. Although he dropped out, he loved the school and even donated $1 million to the school.
Michael Kors went bankrupt in 1990.
In 1990, the brand experienced a rough spot and had to file for bankruptcy. However, times have clearly changed, and the brand has continued to be a success.
Michael Kors had some help from Anna Wintour.
At only 23-years-old, Kors was able to convince Anna Wintour to view his eponymous collection, giving his career a major boost.
Michael Kors is married to Lance LePere, a fellow designer.
The couple has been married since 2011. However, they have known each other since 1990, when LePere joined the Michael Kors team as an intern.
Michael Kors was a judge on Project Runway.
From 2004 to 2012, Kors was a judge on Project Runway alongside major names like Heidi Klum.
