When you think of designer fashion, you probably think of Calvin Klein. This brand, which began in 1968 as Calvin Klein Limited with a small but sophisticated line of men and women's coats, has blossomed into one of the most popular names in apparel and accessories today. What sets Calvin Klein's styles apart from those of other designers are the well cut, yet simple, pieces. The Calvin Klein name is perhaps best known for its line of jeans and its collection of underwear. But in fact, Calvin Klein also sells a wide range of women's and men's apparel, as well as accessories and home goods.

If you want to invest in some clothing pieces that blend classic lines with a very modern appeal, here are some things you should know:

  1. The Calvin Klein products are sold by a company called Phillips-Van Heusen (PVH). To learn more about Calvin Klein and its product lines, check out PVH.  Each brand available under the Calvin Klein name has its own distinct style and product type.

  2. The Calvin Klein Collection is the cornerstone of all of the brands. The items sold under this collection are of the highest quality and the most expensive. Be prepared to pay well for the fine fabrics and details.
  3. A more moderately-priced version of the high end line of clothes is called the ck Calvin Klein brand, which still maintains the classic, yet modern, style that has helped make Calvin Klein a household name.
  4. Under the Calvin Klein brand name, shoppers will find a line of women's better sportswear and career pieces at more affordable prices. This line is widely available at most better department stores, specialty clothing shops and online.
  5. Calvin Klein Jeans sells the brand's jeans that are known for their fits, fabrics and details. You can buy the jeans through freestanding Calvin Klein Jeans stores or find them at a host of better department stores, specialty clothing shops and online.
  6. To look as good beneath your clothing as you look on the outside, shop Calvin Klein Underwear. This line of underwear, intimate apparel and sleepwear can be found at freestanding Calvin Klein Underwear stores, as well as at better department stores, specialty shops and online. You can also browse the latest items available online through Calvin Klein Underwear, which shows products available in Europe and Canada as well as the U.S.
  7. To complete your look, consider finishing touches from Calvin Klein Jewelry & Watches, which you will find under the ck Calvin Klein brand. You can also find eyewear.
  8. For a signature scent to set off your clothes, shop Calvin Klein Fragrances. A few of the best sellers include Eternity, Obsession, ck One and ck Be. 
  9. Look for freestanding Calvin Klein shops, and Calvin Klein specialty brand shops to find many of the items available under the Calvin Klein brands.
  10. If you want to buy Calvin Klein items at a discount, look for Calvin Klein outlet stores in your area, shop sale racks at better department stores, or frequent off-price stores like T.J. Maxx and Marshalls to find Calvin Klein pieces you can afford.
  11. Read The House of Klein: Fashion, Controversy, and a Business Obsession by Lisa Marsh to learn more about the history of Calvin Klein.
Caution:
Be aware of imitations. If the price seems to be too good to be true, check the fabric quality, stitching, finishing touches and label for authenticity.
Quick Tips:
Invest in a few high-end Calvin Klein signature pieces and pair them with less expensive basic pieces to get the polished look you seek on a budget.
Dress up your house with items from the Calvin Klein Home line that includes bedding and other essentials.
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