Iconic fashion designer and Chanel creative director Karl Lagerfeld has died. He was 85.
Early reports suggest Lagerfeld died Tuesday morning (February 19) in Paris. Many were quick to offer condolences to the designer, who was fading in health over the past several weeks, including Italian designer Donatella Versace, who wrote on Instagram: “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.”
Added Victoria Beckham on Instagram: “So incredibly sad to hear this. Karl was a genius and always so kind and generous to me both personally and professionally.”
A prolific figure in the fashion industry, Lagerfeld aligned his brands and visions closely with music, soundtracking his runway shows with projects like Chromatics and Hercules & Love Affair, while collaborating closely with superstar pop artists Rihanna and Lady Gaga. He also directed Pharrell in a Chanel promo video, shot artwork for Florence + the Machine, and appeared in a Snoop Dogg video.
“We are deeply saddened to learn the news of Karl Lagerfeld’s passing today,” stated Caroline Rush, chief executive of the British Fashion Council, via the BBC. “His unrivaled contribution to the fashion industry changed the way women dress and perceive fashion. He inspired generations of young designers and will continue to do so.”
Featured image by Siebbi, via Wikipedia Creative Commons.