WHP to launch Anne Klein denim through licensing deal with One Jeanswear

By

Robin Driver

Published
Nov 7, 2019

New York-based brand management firm WHP Global, which launched earlier this year with the acquisition of Anne Klein, has announced that it will be introducing denim at the classic American womenswear brand starting Fall 2020.

 
The category expansion is being undertaken through a long-term licensing agreement signed with One Jeanswear Group, which will develop and distribute a contemporary denim line for Anne Klein.
 
The collection will seek to propose a premium offering featuring “relevant and modern design,” and will focus on innovative and versatile fits, finishes and fabrics.

Retail prices for the line will range between $69 and $89, with a few stand-out pieces priced at over $100.
 
“One Jeanswear Group is the premier Jeanswear company in North America, and a leader in denim innovation, technology and fit – making this new partnership a natural one for us,” explained WHP Global Chairman and CEO Yehuda Shmidman in a release. “The launch of Anne Klein Jeans creates a new driver of growth for Anne Klein and deepens the brand's assortment in distribution channels across North America.”
 
Founded in 1968, Anne Klein was acquired by WHP from Premier Brands (formerly Nine West Holdings) in July of this year. The brand currently generates more than $700 million in global retail sales and holds licenses with Steve Madden for its footwear and handbags, Kasper Group for sportswear, and Marchon for eyewear, among others.
 
One Jeanswear’s denim license portfolio currently includes the likes of William Rast, Nine West Jeans, Sanctuary and the Jessica Simpson brand.   
 
Launching in Fall 2020, Anne Klein’s first denim collection will be previewed during Market Week in New York.