John Varvatos is Chief Executive Officer of John Varvatos Enterprises Inc. Mr. Varvatos founded his namesake company, inspired by the creative spirit, electricity and edginess of rock 'n' roll more than a decade ago.

Mr. Varvatos began his career at Polo Ralph Lauren Corp. in 1983. Recruited by Calvin Klein in 1990, he was named Head of Menswear Design and oversaw the launch of the men's collection and the influential ck Calvin Klein brand. In 1995, he returned to Polo Ralph Lauren as Head of Menswear Design for the company's portfolio of brands and created the successful Polo Jeans Company.

In 2000, Mr. Varvatos launched his own men's collection and that same year was recognized by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) with the Perry Ellis Award for Menswear. He then wowed the industry by receiving the CFDA award for Menswear Designer of the Year in 2001 and again in 2005. In 2007, GQ magazine named him Designer of the Year in its 12th Annual Men of the Year issue.

A long-time music lover, Mr. Varvatos credits the rock 'n' roll, Motown, blues, jazz and punk music he experienced while growing up in Detroit as main influences for his eclectic work. For the last two years, he has hosted Born In Detroit, a monthly radio show on Sirius XM's Faction channel that features songs by his favorite artists as well as interviews and live performances. He also writes a music blog, JV's Fun House, which gives fans insight into his trips to concerts, festivals, parties and backstage jam sessions around the world.

Business Leadership, Footwear, Lifestyle