Lagerfeld

Lagerfeld is the surname of Karl Lagerfeld, a German fashion designer and photographer who was a major figure in the fashion industry from the 1960s until his death in 2019. Born on September 10, 1933, in Hamburg, Germany, he rose to prominence in Paris and became one of the most influential designers of his era.

Lagerfeld is best known for his long-time roles at two major fashion houses. He served as creative director of Chanel from 1983 onward, reviving the brand and shaping its modern identity with a blend of classic elegance and contemporary edge. He also had a long association with Fendi, beginning in 1965, where he guided the house’s fur, leather, and ready-to-wear collections for decades. In addition to his work for these houses, he launched his own eponymous label, Karl Lagerfeld, in 1984, producing seasonal collections and a wide range of accessories.

Style and influence: Lagerfeld was recognized for a distinctive, streamlined aesthetic that combined sharp silhouettes with a sense of theatrical polish. He maintained a personal signature look—white hair in a ponytail, dark sunglasses, fingerless gloves, and a high-collared shirt with a black suit—which became an enduring public image. Beyond fashion design, he was a prolific photographer and creative force who contributed to campaigns, publications, and visual culture across the industry.

Legacy: Lagerfeld’s work helped redefine modern luxury branding and the presentation of fashion houses, leaving a lasting impact on branding, design, and media within haute couture and beyond.