A decade has flown by since MenStylefashion first introduced its list of 10 renowned male models for Calvin Klein underwear back in September 2014. It’s time to revisit and expand this roster, showcasing the evolution and impact of these style icons.
Models of the 1990s: The Trailblazers
1. Antonio Sabato Jr. (1990)
Photo Credit: Calvin Klein
2. Mark Wahlberg (1992)
Wahlberg’s 1992 campaign, then known as Marky Mark, was a cultural touchstone. His rugged charisma, paired with Kate Moss, created an iconic moment that resonated beyond the fashion world, embodying the rebellious spirit of the era.
Mark Wahlberg and Kate moss modelling for Calvin Klein underwear
Models of the Early 2000s: Defining a New Era
3. Travis Fimmel (2001)
Fimmel’s 2001 campaign showcased his versatility. His boyish charm was a stark contrast to his later rugged appearance, illustrating Calvin Klein’s knack for highlighting emerging talents.
4. Freddie Ljungberg (2005)
The celebrated footballer brought his sportsmanship to fashion in 2005. His campaign not only highlighted his athletic prowess but also marked his successful foray into a new domain.
Fredrik Ljungberg footballer for Arsenal and model for Calvin Klein underwear.
5. Djimon Hounsou (2007)
In 2007, Hounsou added a notable chapter to Calvin Klein’s narrative. His distinctive presence and acclaimed acting career complemented the brand’s commitment to diversity and influential endorsements.
Djimon Hounsou is a Beninese–American actor and model known for movies like Gladiator and Blood Diamond.
6. Jamie Dornan (2009)
Before his fame in the “Fifty Shades of Grey” series, Dornan’s 2009 campaign showcased his versatility and appeal, setting the stage for his later success in film.
7. Fernando Verdasco (2010)
The top-ranked tennis player from Spain brought a blend of athletic appeal and fashion-forward style to the 2010 campaign, highlighting the Calvin Klein X line’s combination of comfort and style.
8. Hidetoshi Nakata (2010)
Nakata’s modelling for Calvin Klein in 2010 marked a significant blend of sports and fashion, bringing his athletic dynamism and a fresh perspective to the campaign.
9. Kellan Lutz (2010)
Known for the “Twilight” saga, Lutz’s collaboration with Calvin Klein in 2010 emphasized his athletic physique and aligned with the brand’s reputation for showcasing strong, dynamic figures.
10. Mehcad Brooks (2010)
Brooks, known for “True Blood,” brought a compelling edge to the X underwear range in 2010. His strong on-screen presence translated seamlessly into the fashion arena, adding a contemporary flair to Calvin Klein’s image.
Models of 2011 to Present: The Modern Vanguard
11. Trevante Rhodes (2017)
In 2017, Trevante Rhodes, known for Moonlight, was featured in a Calvin Klein campaign. This collaboration marked a shift in the brand’s advertising strategy, focusing on powerful storytelling and cultural impact.
12. Justin Bieber (2015-2020)
Bieber’s evolution from a teen idol to a mature artist was mirrored in his Calvin Klein campaigns. His involvement over the years reflected the changing phases of his career, showcasing his growth and the brand’s adaptability.
13. Shawn Mendes (2019)
Mendes’ 2019 campaign was a testament to Calvin Klein’s ability to evolve with the times. His transition from music to modelling highlighted his broad appeal and the brand’s continued relevance to a younger, fashion-conscious audience.
14. Michael B. Jordan (2023)
In 2023, Jordan brought a new level of intensity to Calvin Klein. His campaign underscored the brand’s focus on athleticism and style, aligning with his roles in “Creed” and “Black Panther.”
15. Aaron Taylor-Johnson (2023)
Taylor-Johnson’s 2023 campaign showcased his magnetic presence and effortless style. His dynamic portrayal in various settings underscored Calvin Klein’s “Calvins or Nothing” concept, emphasizing confidence and sensuality.
16. Anthony Ramos (2021)
Known for standout roles in “Hamilton” and “In the Heights,” Ramos brought a blend of charisma and authenticity to Calvin Klein in 2021. His confident demeanour resonated with the brand’s minimalistic yet powerful aesthetic.
17. Brandon Flynn (2023)
Flynn, recognized for “13 Reasons Why,” shone in Calvin Klein’s 2023 campaigns. His involvement underscored the brand’s dedication to inclusivity and representation, particularly in the LGBTQIA+ community.
18. Carlos Alcaraz (2023)
The young tennis sensation made his mark in 2023, blending his athletic charm with Calvin Klein’s iconic style. His campaign featured evocative, stripped-back portraits that emphasized strength and confidence.
19. Dominic Fike (2021)
Known for “Euphoria” and his music career, Fike’s participation in the fall 2021 campaign diverged from the brand’s traditional approach, focusing on authenticity and personal reflection.
20. Evan Mock (2021)
Mock’s appearance in the 2021 holiday campaign showcased his unique style and versatility, aligning with Calvin Klein’s innovative and environmentally conscious approach.
21. Jacob Elordi (2019, 2021)
Acclaimed for his roles in “Euphoria,” Elordi brought a mature and refined presence to the Calvin Klein campaigns in 2019 and 2021, focusing on the brand’s core essentials.
22. Jeremy Allen White (2024)
Star of “The Bear,” White starred in the 2024 campaign, bringing a dynamic presence that captured significant attention, highlighting Calvin Klein’s tradition of combining minimalistic style with comfort.
23. Maluma (2020)
The Colombian singer joined Calvin Klein’s 2020 campaign, bringing a unique blend of flair and sensuality that celebrated his artistic persona and resonated well with his Pretty Boy image.
24. Odell Beckham Jr. (2019)
The NFL star brought his athletic prowess and style to Calvin Klein’s 2019 campaign, resonating with audiences and underscoring the brand’s dedication to showcasing various influential personalities.
25. Omar Ayuso (2021, 2022)
Known for “Elite,” Ayuso’s appearances in Calvin Klein’s campaigns, notably the 2021 Pride campaign, celebrated LGBTQ+ identity and featured him in contemporary essentials.
26. Oscar Emboaba (2014)
Emboaba fronted a special campaign in 2014, targeting the Brazilian market. His involvement highlighted Calvin Klein’s ability to create impactful, region-specific advertisements.
27. Romelu Lukaku (2022)
The Belgian footballer’s campaign featured a powerful blend of athleticism and style, aligning with Calvin Klein’s signature minimalism and sensuality.
28. Son Heung-min (2023)
The South Korean footballer’s 2023 campaign brought a unique blend of athleticism and style, embodying the modern Calvin Klein ethos of masculinity and fashion-forward design.
29. Brandon Stoughton
Brandon Stoughton, best known for his appearance in Britney Spears’ music video for “Womanizer,” gained notable fame in 2008. That same year, he was chosen as the face of Calvin Klein’s underwear campaign. His involvement with Calvin Klein, marked by his striking looks and charismatic presence, added a dynamic edge to the brand’s iconic advertising legacy.
Iconic Calvin Klein Models
From the trailblazing ’90s to the modern vanguards, these 29 models have each contributed uniquely to Calvin Klein’s legacy. Their individual stories, spanning over three decades, have reinforced the brand’s status as a fashion trailblazer, adept at blending style, personality, and cultural impact.
Conclusion
This journey through Calvin Klein’s illustrious modelling history showcases a brand that has continually evolved while staying true to its heritage. Each model, from Wahlberg to Jordan, Heung-min to Ljungberg, has left an indelible mark, shaping not just the brand’s identity but also influencing fashion trends and cultural dialogues globally.
