Karl Lagerfeld was one of the most influential fashion designers in history. His iconic designs and contributions to the fashion industry will always be remembered.
Born in Hamburg, Germany in 1933, Karl Lagerfeld began his career in fashion as an assistant to Pierre Balmain in Paris. He went on to become a prolific designer, working for some of the biggest names in fashion, including Chloe, Fendi, and most notably, Chanel.
About Karl Lagerfeld
Karl Otto Lagerfeld was born on September 10, 1933, in Hamburg, Germany. His father, Otto Lagerfeld, was a businessman who ran a company that imported evaporated milk; his mother, Elisabeth Bahlmann, was a lingerie saleswoman.
Lagerfeld was interested in fashion from a young age, and he was particularly drawn to the glamour of Hollywood movies. He taught himself French by reading fashion magazines and books, and he moved to Paris at the age of 14 to pursue his dreams of becoming a fashion designer.
Karl Lagerfeld’s Career in Fashion Design
Lagerfeld began his career in fashion as an apprentice at Pierre Balmain’s fashion house in 1955. He worked there for three years before moving to Jean Patou, where he designed two haute couture collections per year.
In 1963, he became the artistic director at Chloe, where he was responsible for creating ready-to-wear clothing for women.
In 1983, Lagerfeld joined forces with Italian fashion company Fendi, where he created their ready-to-wear collection, as well as their famous fur collection. He stayed with Fendi until his death in 2019.
However, Lagerfeld is perhaps best known for his work with Chanel. He became the creative director of the fashion house in 1983, and he remained in that role until his death.
Under Lagerfeld’s direction, Chanel became one of the most successful and influential fashion brands in the world.
Karl Lagerfeld – Iconic Designs
Lagerfeld was known for his avant-garde designs and his love of innovation. He was particularly interested in combining classic styles with modern elements, and he often used unusual materials and techniques to create his pieces.
One of Lagerfeld’s most iconic designs is the Chanel suit. He modernized the traditional design by adding a slimmer silhouette and replacing heavy wool with lighter fabrics. He also introduced the idea of matching accessories, such as jewelry and handbags, to complete the look.
Another iconic Lagerfeld creation is the Fendi Baguette bag, which he designed in 1997. The small, rectangular bag quickly became a must-have accessory, and it was worn by celebrities and fashionistas all over the world.
Lagerfeld was also known for his use of logos and branding. He was one of the first designers to put logos on clothing and accessories, and he often used the interlocking C’s of the Chanel logo in his designs.
Karl Lagerfeld’s Collaboration with Chanel
Lagerfeld’s collaboration with Chanel began in 1983, when he was appointed creative director of the brand. He revolutionized the brand by injecting new life into its classic designs, and he brought a fresh perspective to the fashion house.
Under Karl Lagerfeld’s direction, Chanel became known for its theatrical runway shows, which were often held in elaborate settings such as a supermarket, a space station, or a casino.
Lagerfeld also created some of the most memorable fashion moments in history, such as the time he sent models down the runway wearing 15-foot-high wigs.
Lagerfeld’s work with Chanel was not limited to clothing. He also designed accessories, such as jewelry, handbags, and shoes, as well as beauty products and fragrances. His contributions helped to make Chanel one of the most recognizable and successful brands in the world.
Karl Lagerfeld’s Contributions to the Fashion Industry
Lagerfeld’s contributions to the fashion industry were vast and far-reaching. He was a master at combining classic styles with modern elements, and he was known for his innovative use of materials and techniques.
Lagerfeld was also an early pioneer of high-low fashion. He was one of the first designers to collaborate with high-street brands, such as H&M and Macy’s, making designer clothing accessible to a wider audience.
In addition to his work as a designer, Karl Lagerfeld was an accomplished photographer. He often photographed his own ad campaigns and editorial spreads, and he even published a book of his photography in 1987.
Karl Lagerfeld’s Personal Style and Influence
Lagerfeld’s personal style was as iconic as his designs. He was known for his signature look of black sunglasses, white hair, and fingerless gloves. He often wore high-collared shirts and tailored jackets, and he had a love for elaborate accessories, such as brooches and scarves.
Karl Lagerfeld’s personal style was a reflection of his love for fashion, and it was an inspiration to many. He was a fashion icon in his own right, and he influenced the way that people dressed all over the world.
Lagerfeld also had a great influence on the fashion industry as a whole. He was known for his sharp wit and his no-nonsense approach to business.
His contributions to the industry extended beyond fashion design, and he was often sought after for his opinions on everything from beauty to politics.
Karl Lagerfeld’s Controversial Statements and Actions
Despite his many accomplishments, Lagerfeld was not without controversy. He was known for making controversial statements and engaging in questionable behavior throughout his career.
One of the most notable controversies surrounding Lagerfeld was his comments about Adele’s weight. In a 2012 interview with Metro, Lagerfeld said that Adele was “a little too fat,” sparking outrage from fans and celebrities alike.
Lagerfeld was also criticized for his use of fur in his designs. He faced protests and boycotts from animal rights activists, who accused him of cruelty towards animals.
In addition, there were rumors about Karl Lagerfeld’s personal life, including his sexuality and his relationships with his models. While these rumors were never confirmed or denied by Lagerfeld himself, they contributed to his reputation as a controversial figure.
Karl Lagerfeld’s Inspirational Quotes
Despite his controversial nature, Karl Lagerfeld was also known for his inspiring words. He was a master of the soundbite, and he had a way of expressing complex ideas in simple, memorable phrases.
Some of Lagerfeld’s most famous quotes include:
- “Sweatpants are a sign of defeat. You lost control of your life so you bought some sweatpants”
- “Fashion is not only about clothes. It’s about all kinds of change”
- “I’m very much down to Earth. Just not this Earth”
- “Fashion is a language that creates itself in clothes to interpret reality”
- “I am very much against cheap fashion. Because you buy cheap, you buy twice”
These quotes are a testament to Lagerfeld’s wit, wisdom, and unique perspective on the world of fashion.
Conclusion
Karl Lagerfeld was a fashion icon and a true innovator. His contributions to the fashion industry will always be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of designers.
From his early years as an apprentice to his iconic designs for Chanel and Fendi, Lagerfeld was a master of his craft. He transformed classic styles with modern elements, and he was never afraid to take risks or push boundaries.
While he was not without controversy, Lagerfeld was also known for his inspiring words and his unique sense of humor. He was a larger-than-life figure who will always be remembered for his contributions to the world of fashion.
