Fashion mourns death of ‘Kaiser’ Karl Lagerfeld
PARIS: The fashion world has been plunged into mourning by the death of legendary designer Karl Lagerfeld, the rapier-witted dandy who ruled over the industry for half a century.
Chanel, the iconic French fashion house he led for nearly four decades, on Tuesday confirmed his passing, prompting an unprecedented outpouring of emotion from designers and celebrities.
In a statement on Tuesday, Chanel said Lagerfeld was “an extraordinary creative individual... a prolific creative mind with endless imagination”.
Meanwhile, his friend, supermodel Linda Evangelista, said she was heartbroken, calling him the “great love of my life”.
Italian designer Donatella Versace led the tributes among fashion’s leading players as news of Lagerfeld’s death broke.
“Karl, your genius touched the lives of so many, especially Gianni and I. We will never forget your incredible talent and endless inspiration. We were always learning from you,” she wrote on Instagram, referring to her murdered brother.
In an equally emotional tribute, actress and model Diane Kruger said, “I cannot tell you how much you meant to me and how much I will miss you,” the German star wrote on Instagram.
Finally, one of the most recognized supermodels of this generation, Gigi Hadid, wrote a touching farewell for Lagerfeld on her Instagram account.
“Karl, I will miss your indescribable presence, watching your calm, quiet, genius mind working, your little jokes, amazing stories, and experiencing the clothes, sets, and productions only you could dream up.
“Thank you for believing in me and for the beautiful, incredible opportunities you brought to my career, but mostly, thank you for giving me the honor of knowing the magic behind the myth.
“There will never be another Karl Lagerfeld. I am overwhelmed with sadness today, but also with so much love, admiration, and gratitude for you,” Hadid ended.