Some of you may be asking who Karl Lagerfeld was. Outside of being the King of Maximal Elegance, he was a pioneer in fashion and revolutionised numerous luxury brands as creative director, including Chloe, Fendi, Balmain, his eponymous label and, most notably, Chanel. So, there is a trove of inspiration to be reimagined!
His eye for modernity, combined with his gift for garment architecture, sparked one design invention after another. But it was at the helm of Chanel he truly made himself a fashion icon – both off and on the runway.
He directed the French fashion house into a contemporary era of Haute Couture, using Coco’s template of iconic fabrics and embellishments and overtly making cult classics of the signature bouclé tweed, pearls and interlocking C’s. This opulence, alongside the spectacular fashion shows, engaged a new generation that will tie his name to the brand forever.
Born in Hamburg in 1933, Karl’s modus operandi away from the catwalks was tastefully classic, with a dark edge. Smart gothic thanks to the black suits, white shirts, and ties. His many trademarks include: the fingerless gloves, the fan, the stand-up collar, black sunglasses, and his signature ponytail. And we can't forget Choupette, his beloved cat.
The indelible legacy he left on the fashion sphere was on full display thanks to the notorious guestlist, but here's our Top Five looks....
Dua Lipa in Chanel styled by Lorenzo Posocco
Dua Lipa looking fabulous in a princess-inspired tweed gown from the 1992 Fall Couture collection. Although understated compared to some, she gave a luxurious romantic vibe letting the Tiffany Lucida Star Necklace do the talking.
Doja Cat in Oscar de la Renta styled by Brett Alan Nelson
Although jewel encrusted with feathers adding glamour, Doja Cat’s Oscar de la Renta gown designed in collaboration with her stylist, Brett Alan Nelson, is a fun, playful outfit in reference to Lagerfeld’s cat, Choupette. The theme is followed through to cat claws like looking nails.
Pedro Pascal wearing Valentino styled by Julia Ragolia
Wearing Valentino, the drama is bought into this outfit not only with the shorts and boots but the striking coat length and colour.
Anne Hathaway in Atelier Versace styled by Erin Walsh
There's a classic look and feel to Anne''s Atelier Versace outfit. Although skin is on show and pin and pearl adornments may appeal to some, it would be too revealing for others. The natural texture of the material tones down the overall look.
Alton Mason in Chanel styled by Kollin Carter
The the first black model to walk for Chanel at the 2018 Métier d'art show, Alton Mason channeled a Chanel bride with an extreme dramatic look softened with the pattern curves and romance of the lace, complete with trademark fingerless gloves.
Guest written by: Kerrie Boachie and Leah Donaldson James
Edited by: Lisa Quick
Expert Consultant Commentary by: Sarah Evans
Image credit: WireImage / Getty Images
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