Fashion icon Calvin Klein, 83, is reportedly considering marriage to his partner of nearly a decade, model Kevin Baker, 36, not solely for romantic reasons, but to secure Baker’s financial future. Sources close to the designer say the move is a pragmatic one, aimed at avoiding potential legal complications surrounding his substantial estate.
The discussion of marriage, while quiet, has been ongoing, according to insiders. “This isn’t about a big wedding or a splashy moment,” one source told Straight Shuter, as reported by Yahoo Entertainment. “Marriage is the simplest way for Calvin to make sure Kevin is fully taken care of.” Klein’s fashion empire is estimated to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars, making estate planning a significant concern.
The potential for challenges to a will is a key driver behind the consideration. “Wills can be challenged,” an insider explained. “Marriage makes everything clear.” The sentiment within Klein’s inner circle is reportedly joking, yet pointed: “If Calvin doesn’t marry Kevin, he might have to adopt him!”
Klein and Baker have maintained a relatively private relationship since they were first publicly linked in 2016, appearing together at events like the Mint Luxury Conference in Mumbai, India, and the opening of Broadway’s American Psycho. Baker, who previously worked with agencies like Nous and Heffner and appeared in editorials for publications like Supplementaire and Homme Style, has largely stepped away from modeling and maintains a low public profile.
This potential union comes after a period of personal evolution for Klein. Prior to his relationship with Baker, Klein was married twice – first to Jayne Centre from 1965 to 1974, with whom he shares a daughter, Marci Klein, and later to his assistant, Kelly Rector, from 1986 to 1996 (with the divorce finalized in 2006). He and Rector remained close following their separation.
Klein publicly identified as bisexual in a 2008 interview with Vanity Fair, stating, “I’ve had, and I’ve said before, many fantasies. I’ve been with men, I’ve been with women. I’ve loved women. I’ve married women. And I have a family.” This openness about his sexuality adds another layer to his personal narrative and the evolving dynamics of his relationships.
The couple recently drew attention after an incident in New York’s East Village, where Klein stumbled while entering an event. The incident sparked online commentary, with some criticizing Baker for not appearing to offer more assistance. However, reports suggest Klein was momentarily disoriented by flashing cameras. The incident, while seemingly minor, highlighted the public scrutiny the couple faces.
Just weeks prior, on , Klein and Baker were photographed together at a Gold’s Gym, sporting matching outfits, according to the Daily Mail. This seemingly ordinary outing underscores their shared lifestyle and continued companionship.
The potential marriage is a significant development, not just for the couple, but also for the broader conversation surrounding age-gap relationships and estate planning within high-net-worth individuals. While the couple has largely avoided public displays of affection or detailed discussions about their personal lives, the reports suggest a pragmatic approach to ensuring Baker’s security and a desire for clarity within Klein’s complex financial holdings. The move signals a desire for long-term stability and a formalization of a relationship that has quietly endured for nearly a decade.
The focus on financial security, as highlighted by sources, underscores the practical considerations that often accompany long-term partnerships, particularly when significant wealth is involved. It remains to be seen whether the couple will move forward with a formal wedding ceremony, but the discussions themselves indicate a commitment to solidifying their future together.
