Bill Kaiserman

Background

He grew up in Brooklyn.

Career

Kaiserman established a design studio in the Italian design community in Milan, and developed a designer business in Europe and Asia. He studyied acting with Uta Hagen. He founded the Rafael Company in 1970.

He entered women"s wear in 1976.

By 1979, the company had United States$30 million in sales for its men"s and women"s collections business, which included sportswear, clothing, eveningwear and swimwear. The designer also developed an international clothing licensing business (Van Gils, Netherlands) under the Bill Kaiserman Label.

In 1982, Bill Kaiserman moved to Milan, Italy, to develop an international designer business under Bill Kaiserman Label. During the eighties and through partnerships with international companies like Mitsui, and Kashiyana, the Bill Kaiserman Label grew in popularity in Europe, Asia and America.

In the early 1990s, Bill Kaiserman returned to the United States. to develop a United States. licensing business with companies like Hartz & Company

Format. Mondo, Incorporated, and American Fashion, Incorporated. He has recently also helped other labels by designing new collections, such as Avirex"s AVX line.

In 1997, Bill Kaiserman created Skin Finish, a revolutionary new coating for fabrics that is patent-pending.

In 1998, Bill Kaiserman launched Skins, a street-wear inspired sportswear collection for men and women. Skins being sold to American department and specialty stores. In 2000, he introduced Skins, a streetwear-inspired sportswear collection for men and women.

Achievements

• He was awarded the Cavaliere Delegate Lavoro (Knight for Labour) award from the Italian government for his role in developing Italy"s reputation in design, fabric and production innovation. During this time Bill Kaiserman also won three Coty awards as well as the first ever Hall of Fame award for Best American Designer.