Where Is Kelly Klein Now? All About Calvin Klein’s Ex-Wife

**The Journey of Kelly Klein: From Designer Muse to Creative Entrepreneur**

Kelly Klein, an influential figure in the fashion industry, first captured public attention as the wife of renowned designer Calvin Klein. Married for 20 years between 1986 and 2006, their relationship has since taken a more amicable turn, with both maintaining a deep friendship even after their split. With her career blossoming since their marriage, Klein’s life story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of personal passions.

Klein’s foray into fashion began at the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, where she honed her design skills. Initially starting her career as a design assistant at Ralph Lauren, she aspired to work with Calvin Klein. However, her first attempt was met with rejection. A chance encounter at the iconic Studio 54 would change her fate; Calvin Klein offered her a position as an assistant designer the very next day. This pivotal moment not only marked the beginning of her professional collaboration with Calvin but also sparked a romantic relationship that would lead to their marriage in Rome.

Over the years, Klein played an integral role in the growth of the Calvin Klein brand. She was instrumental in creating iconic designs, notably pioneering the concept of men’s underwear for women. This forward-thinking idea alone was responsible for generating a staggering $70 million in sales in 1984, showcasing Klein’s innovative capabilities. Her contributions established her as more than just a muse; she was a significant force behind the label’s success.

Despite their close bond, the couple announced their separation after a decade of marriage. Although they were technically still married for another ten years, their relationship evolved into a meaningful friendship. Their divorce was finalised in 2006, just after the birth of their son, Lukas, who was welcomed into the world via surrogate. Even decades later, both Kelly and Calvin continue to publicly celebrate their friendship, recently seen together at New York Fashion Week in February 2025.

Notably intertwined within their lives was John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette, with whom the Kleins shared a close friendship. This relationship is explored in the FX series “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette,” where Klein is portrayed by actress Leila George. The series sheds light on the glamorous, yet complicated lives they led during the 1990s, further embedding their narrative in popular culture.

Following her time in the fashion world, Klein shifted her focus toward photography. Over the years, her work has appeared in esteemed publications such as British Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. A talented artist, she has published six coffee table books showcasing her photography, in addition to working on various advertising campaigns for hotels. Her foray into the world of ceramics has also proven fruitful, as she successfully established her own ceramics company.

In more recent times, Klein has primarily divided her time between her residences in Palm Beach, Florida, and the Hamptons. She has emphasised the importance of family and connection, particularly cherishing moments with her son, Lukas, before he embarks on his journey to college. An avid equestrian, Klein has expressed her lifelong passion for horses, recalling the unyielding drive that compelled her to pursue the sport as a young girl.

This profound attachment to her equestrian pursuits serves as a testament to her resilient spirit. In interviews, she has conveyed her deep affection for horses, illustrating that this passion has become a steadfast constant throughout her life. She reflected, “My love of horses has been the only constant in my life. I love everything about them: their smell, temperament, their large, friendly eyes, their warm breath, their muscles—everything.”

Looking forward, Kelly Klein continues to thrive both personally and professionally while navigating her post-divorce life. Her ongoing creative ventures, alongside her enduring friendship with Calvin Klein and cherished memories with Lukas, exemplify her ability to adapt and flourish. As the legacy of both her work and personal life unfolds, she remains an inspiring figure in the realms of fashion, photography, and beyond.