John Varvatos grew up in Detroit-­‐the music melting pot of America where Motown, rock & roll, blues, jazz, and punk melded together in an unforgettable period of music history. At an early age, Varvatos was exposed to defining musicians including The Who, Led Zeppelin, Detroit’s own MC5, Alice Cooper, Bob Seger, and The Stooges. The creative spirit, electricity and edginess intrinsic in the personal style of these rock ‘n’ roll icons inspired the designer  and influenced the evolution of his eclectic sensibility. This can be seen as a unifying theme in his design and it is deeply ingrained in every expression of his brand, which includes his famed 315 Bowery boutique in New York City, formerly the seminal underground music club CBGB’s. Here, Varvatos pays tribute to the musical heritage of this legendary site.

With a unique brand position that unites a rock n’ roll sensibility, old world craftsmanship and modern innovation, Varvatos has become one of the most well- known menswear designers in the world. His designs often draw inspiration from the past only to repurpose these ideas into something entirely new. The resulting collections reflect quality and attention to detail while creating luxurious, comfortable clothing for a modern lifestyle.

Varvatos joined Polo Ralph Lauren in 1984. Recruited by Calvin Klein in 1990, he was appointed Head of Menswear Design and oversaw the launch of the men’s collection and the influential cK brand. In 1995, he returned to Polo as Head of Menswear Design for all Polo Ralph Lauren brands and created the highly successful RLL, Black Label and Polo Jeans Company.

For Fall/Winter 2000, Varvatos launched his premiere men’s collection and in the same year was recognized by the CFDA with the Perry Ellis Award for New Menswear Designer. He received a second CFDA award for Menswear Designer of the Year in 2001. In 2005, was recognized with a third CFDA Menswear Designer of the Year Award, and in 2007, GQ magazine named him Designer of the Year. In 2013, he was honored as Menswear Designer of the Year at the 10th Annual Style Awards during New York Fashion Week.  That year, Varvatos also released his first book John Varvatos: Rock in Fashion, which documents the elements of rock style that have embodied the music community for decades. Most recently, Varvatos entered into a strategic partnership with Republic Records and launched John Varvatos Records in February 2014.

More recently, he was honored Accessories Council Excellence (ACE) Award for Designer of the Year and the Icon Award for Social Impact at Footwear News’ Annual Achievement Awards.