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Karl Lagerfeld | The History of an Icon

Holly Thompson
Writer and expert1 year ago
View Holly Thompson's profile
Karl Lagerfeld, a true visionary and the ingenious creative behind some of fashion's most prestigious labels including Fendi, Chloe and Chanel, as well as his own brand KARL LAGERFELD. The world was brought to a standstill after the creative genius passed away during London AW19 Fashion Week. This year the MET Gala, one of the biggest red carpet events is titled Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty. With 150 pieces of his work being showcased in his memory, we’re taking a look at his career and how he became one of the most influential designers of all time. 
Karl Lagerfeld
karl.com

Karl Lagerfeld History

In 1933 pre-war Germany, Karl Otto Lagerfeldt was born into a small wealthy family in Hamburg. Karl was the youngest of three siblings, with a businessman father and Swedish mother, one older sister born 2 years before him, and a half-sister from his father’s first marriage. Later in his life, Karl changed his surname to Lagerfeld, dropping the ‘t’ to make it sound more commercial. At the young age of 14, Karl and his family emigrated to Paris where he studied drawing and history.

Embrace the present and invent the future

Karl Lagerfeld Career

In Paris, 1955, Karl entered a coat designing competition which he went on to win, subsequently going on to start working for couture designer Pierre Balmain. This was to be the first step in his lifelong career of working with prestigious designer labels, going on to work at Jean Patou, Krizia, Charles Jourdan and Valentino.

Fast forward to the 1970s and after a 10-year stint at Fendi, Karl takes the position as creative head at Parisian designer Chloe, a brand which Karl later rejoins in 1992.

Karl Lagerfeld
karl.com
Karl Lagerfeld
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I design like I breathe. You don’t ask to breathe — it just happens.

In 1983, Karl joined Chanel as creative director, putting his couture stamp on the brand and shaping it into what we know and love Chanel to be today. As well as working for many iconic designer labels, he also launched his very own fashion line. His self-named label KARL LAGERFELD launched in 1984 and celebrated his colossal legacy and creativity in each item. Known for his signature dark sunglasses, slick ponytail and uniformed attire, Karl left a big hole in the world of fashion. He was a favourite with the world's most influential faces in the fashion industry and was unmistakably one of our lifetime's greats.

 

Karl Lagerfeld Bags
@gal__hadad styles new season KARL LAGERFELD

KARL LAGERFELD Bags

At MyBag we just love the versatility of KARL LAGERFELD bags. Available in a broad range of colours, fabrics, finishes and styles, a KARL LAGERFELD bag can be styled in so many different ways. The brand emulates the iconic vision and aesthetic of Karl, but fuses it with a contemporary fun spirit. The signature KARL LAGERFELD look combines Parisian style with a racy and rock ‘n’ roll attitude. The result is investment pieces that can be worn season after season!

Key Styles

The KARL LAGERFELD Tote Bag

These bags put a modern twist on a bag that can often be quite sensible and minimal. The range includes structured tote bags if you want a sturdier look or there are cotton bags which will give you a slouchy more casual look. You can even get the playful Karl and Choupette artwork on, the designer and his infamous feline friend.

The KARL LAGERFELD Raffia Bags

Providing us with the ultimate summer bag, these tote bags in the Raffia fabrication are high on our wishlist. Coming in a classic beige colour tote bag which is our beach bag and summer dresses option. Then there is a smaller and larger style in a pink colour which is perfect for those casual but also more dressed up occasions.

The KARL LAGERFELD Cross Body Bags

Their cross-body bags are definitely one of their best sellers. The bags often have a shoulder strap as well so you can wear them in versatile ways. They have a modern edge which also makes them great day and night bags. The Shooting Stars K/Swing Leather Baguette Bag is a standout bag this season, we love it for it's chunky appearance with the trending baguette shape.

 

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Holly Thompson
Writer and expert
View Holly Thompson's profile
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