Making Of An Icon

How does a fashion designer get single-name status? Michael Kors thinks he has the answer

I've never dressed this group before," exclaims designer Michael Kors. He's talking about the millions of consumers out there who may covet designer fashion but are not prepared to shell out $850 for one of his 10-ply cashmere sweaters or $8,900 for hand-beaded pants. Or who may not even know his name. Kors built a fashion reputation dressing American jet-setters in cashmere and sequins, but now he covets single-name status like Ralph or Calvin. So he's launching MICHAEL Michael Kors (yes, the first name twice), intending to swathe Americans in what he calls "affordable luxury"--bright Argyle sweaters, paisley-print raincoats and stamped-leather...

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