Michael Kors started his own label in 1981.
Before launching his namesake line, Kors worked at Lothar’s, a trendsetting boutique on Manhattan’s West 57th Street. His talent attracted the attention of Dawn Mello, then an executive at Bergdorf Goodman. Mello encouraged him to contact her when he had designed a collection, giving the young designer an important connection to one of New York’s leading luxury retailers.
Kors officially launched his own line in 1981, creating sophisticated American sportswear designed for everyday wear. The collection combined practical separates with glamour, a balance that became central to his fashion identity. The year 1981 refers to the beginning of his own label, not to his first runway presentation.
That first runway show came later, in 1984, with model Iman among the featured participants. Kors also continued building his business while serving as creative director of Céline from 1997 to 2004. These later milestones can make the timeline seem confusing, but the label itself began in 1981.