Karl Lagerfeld died earlier this week at 85 and the fashion industry will never be the same. As the creative director of Fendi, Chanel, and his namesake label, this monumental loss will be felt across multiple brands, but especially Chanel and Fendi, the latter where he worked for 54 years. “The bond between Karl Lagerfeld and Fendi is fashion’s longest love story, one that will continue to touch our lives for years to come” said creative partner Silvia Venturini Fendi in a press release.
Lagerfeld’s final collection was decidedly feminine. Shoulders were defined, waists were nipped, and hemlines softly grazed the calf. A palette of neutrals contrasted against saffron yellow and turquoise. In true texture play, sheer chiffon swished against structured leather coats. The brand also reintroduced an archived monogram print from 1981, named ‘Karligraphy,’ created from Lagerfeld’s own script.
In the most emotional part of the show, Gigi Hadid closed to a standing ovation. As a tribute video of Karl Lagerfeld describing what he wore on his first day on the job at Fendi played, there wasn’t a single eye in the house left dry.