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90s Calvin Klein: More Than Just Black Paper Clips
27 Feb
Summary
- The 90s Calvin Klein office was known for its minimalist design and controlled environment.
- Employees recall a 'work hard, play hard' culture with strict dress codes.
- Former employees share nostalgic memories of the fashion brand's influential era.

FX's new docudrama "Love Story," focusing on John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette, has prompted former employees to reminisce about the iconic 1990s Calvin Klein office. The Manhattan workspace is recalled as a temple of duotone minimalism, featuring clean lines, white flowers, and a pervasive haze of cigarette smoke.
This meticulously controlled environment fostered a 'work hard, play hard' culture. Employees from the period remember a strong emphasis on polish, with a required uniform that included turtlenecks and suits, and a makeup routine emphasizing a natural look. The brand's aesthetic extended to details like exclusively using black paper clips and maintaining pristine white walls.
Former employees, many of whom have shared their experiences on TikTok, describe the office as "electric" and "glamorous." Despite the demanding work, which often extended late into the night, there was a sense of being part of a significant cultural moment. The nostalgic resurgence of 90s fashion, including minimalist eyewear and straight-leg denim, has brought renewed attention to this influential period at Calvin Klein.



