John's designs often draw inspiration from the past only to repurpose these ideas into something entirely new.  The resulting collections reflect the quality and attention to detail inherent in old world tailoring, while creating luxurious, comfortable clothing for a modern lifestyle.  "I have a great reverence for the craft of old world tailoring but a big part of what I love designing is functional, timeless clothing that is created to be lived in."

John Varvatos joined Polo Ralph Lauren in 1983.  Recruited by Calvin Klein in 1990, he was appointed head of menswear design and oversaw the launch of the men's collection and the influential cK brand.  In 1995, he returned to Polo as Head of Menswear Design for all Polo Ralph Lauren brands and created the highly successful Polo Jeans Company.

John launched his premiere men's collection and in the same year was recognized by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) with the Perry Ellis Award for New Menswear Designer.  He received a second CFDA award for Menswear Designer of the Year; this successive honor was an unprecedented achievement in his category. Later, John was once more recognized by the CFDA with the Menswear Designer of the Year Award.  In its 12th Annual "Men of the Year" issue, GQ magazine named John "Designer of the Year".