Michael Kors began his career at the age of 19 designing and merchandising a collection for the renowned boutique Lothar's in New York City. The success of these clothes caught the attention of the fashion press, prompting Kors to strike out on his own. In 1981 The Michael Kors label was formed. His first women's collection was launched at Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue, among other stores. Since his collection was established, it has never strayed from Kor's initial vision of chic, luxurious American sportswear. In 2001, Michael Kors launched accessories under his collection label.

Today, the line includes a full range of women's handbags, shoes, belts and eyewear. In January 2002, a full scale men's collection was introduced in response to the critical acclaim received by a capsule menswear line launched in 1997. In the fall of 2004 Michael Kors unveiled his latest collection, Michael Michael Kors, to an unprecedented launch in over 350 doors nationwide. The Michael Michael Kors labels includes women's ready to wear, swimwear and accessories including handbags, small leather goods, belts and shoes. Men's sportswear, tailored clothing, dress shirts and neckwear, as well as eyewear and timepieces for both men and women were all part of this impressive label. Michael Kors first signature fragrance for women, 'Michael Kors,' was launched in September of 2000.

Following the success of the women's fragrance, in September of 2001 Kors launched his men's signature fragrance collection. In spring 2005, the company launched its latest fragrance, 'Island Michael Kors,' which won the 2006 FIFI Award for best bath and body collection. Michael Kors collection flagship boutiques are located in the United States on Madison Avenue, at the Americana Manhasset and on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. International boutiques are located in Hong Kong and Dubai.

The first freestanding Michael Kors store opened in Asia at the landmark shopping centre in Hong Kong in April of 2005. Celebrities who have worn Michael Kors clothes include Jennifer Lopez, Charlize Theron, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Pierce Brosnan, Sharon Stone, Madonna, Barbra Streisand, Gwyneth Paltrow, Anjelica Huston, Kate Bosworth, Sigourney Weaver, Usher, Liv Tyler, Jessica Simpson and Rene Russo, whom Michael Kors worked with on the wardrobe for the 1999 remake of the 'Thomas Crown Affair'. Michael Kors received Dupont's first American original award in 1983, and the ELLE/Cadillac Fashion Award for excellence in 1995. In July 1996 he was named by Vogue Magazine as part of the 'New establishment' and referred to as one of the most influential designers of the decade.

In December of 1999, Michael Kors received the New York Award, celebrating 10 people who epitomize the spirit of the city, from New York magazine in the fashion category. In June of 1999, Michael Kors received the most prestigious award in the fashion industry, the CFDA award for womens wear designer of the year, followed by the CFDA menswear award in 2003. In June of 2001, 2005 and 2006, Michael Kors was one of three nominees for the accessories designer of the year award by the CFDA. In 2004, Michael Kors served as one of the judges on the critically acclaimed and Emmy nominated reality show, 'Project Runway,' a role that he continued in its second and third seasons. In the fall of 2004 Michael Kors unveiled his latest and very popular timepieces. Michael Kors currently resides in New York.