A wonderful obituary with some very well chosen quotation.
I would have expected you to tell us what's this about dark glasses?
Without them and the high collar - you would not know it's Karl Lagerfeld.
Lagerfeld was all about the show and the mystique—
And making it as inscrutable as possible. That was part of the show, whether it be about his age, his origin, his father’s origin, his mother’s identity, his strange personal attire, the dark glasses and blank face, his robotic models.
3
I am split about fashion - on the one hand I deplore the terribly sloppy way most Americans leave their homes and present themselves to the world, particularly men. Sneakers with T-shirts on grown men, overweight, hair a mess. And these are people who can afford to take better care of themselves. OK, I'll say it - slobs.
There has been a trend over the last few decades for "comfort" over "style" -and an evisceration of the notion of public space - you see this in air travel, restaurants, theatre, etc. People dressing as if they were sitting in their own basements watching TV with no recognition that they are in public.
On the other hand, high fashion is probably the most frivolous and materialistic of the "arts" - if it is indeed an art. It has a strain of narcissism and snobbery that is condescending and cannot be divorced from a power structure that insults and denigrates people of lesser means.
So I am stuck in the middle, wishing our society cared more about how they present themselves in the public sphere while recognizing the excesses of haute couture.
20
One of the best Saturday Night Live sketches ever was about Karl Lagerfeld and Anna Wintour meeting in a New York deli lunch buffet bar.
2
Sweatpants are a sign of liberation.
4
Have you ever notice that if you are in the public eye and you live long enough, you are bound to be given a "lifetime achievement" award?
3
Largefeld's favorite French writer was the great 17th century orator Bossuet, an unknown figure to most people. His intellect was phenomenal, as well as his sense of humor. He will be missed.
1
Lagerfeld was a crucial part of a fading cultural heritage that put true style, elegance and taste before clickbait and mediocrity. He worked all the time, he lived and breathed his creative process. He was a true artist. He will be greatly missed.
1
I walked the runway at a small provincial show in 1975 in which Mr.Lagerfeld participated, alas not to wear any of his creations as it was his prerogative always to bring his own models. His precision was as renowned as his fashion sense combining creativity with classics.
2
I have never understood the preoccupation with fashion and designers. Most people can not afford designer clothes and the focus the world puts on fashion seems unwarranted and much ado about nothing. It all seems to be a huge waste of time and energy that could be put to much better use.
My sister was a model so I know something about fashion and the business. It did absolutely nothing positive for her and, in fact, made her life much worse. She eventually chose a different path and is a very successful business woman and leader. I am so thankful she left the fashion world for loftier pursuits.
5
Karl was an interesting figure, and a true rarity to remain so essential a creative force so late in life. I wish you had shown more of his clothes, rather than the gallery of landscape pictures from his shows where you can barely see them. But it was nice to see his short film with Pharrell here. He had many talents.This story, however, perpetuates the fiction that his work as a photographer had any value. It was his only area of mediocrity and filled far too many editorial pages at magazines that should have known better.
My condolences to Choupette and the rest of Mr. Lagerfeld's vast circle of loved ones. Rest In Peace, Karl. Thank you, NYT, for this beautifully written tribute.
1
a madly extravagant genius and showman full of great/provocative contradictions, a performer of both the exquisite and rebranded. Those who met him praised his humor, friendship, fast speech, word gunnery and mocking spite. The drawing of his life's companion, his cat Choupette, shows both the sense of caricature and loving characterization, of sketching from the heart and catching the soul of the visible. He turned appearances into an art form of self-display, unabashedly so. His distractors did not love or appreciate him. He was in so many ways irreverent, so full of himself and his modeling the world of fashion after his own image. His work ethics were amazing, his vision was so self-centered and fascinating at the same time. People idolized him, Kaiser Karl, a labeling that he found wanting.
He was too knowledgeable, well-read and cultivated, he did not need simplistic accolades. I am not a fan of his, not a blind admirer, but find this quirky creator of fashion work & fame fascinating nevertheless, ponytail and sunglass and all.
13
What is going to happen to the cat? Choupette? or something like that. Gosh I thought my cat is pampered. I live in NZ, and I order Blue Buffalo cat food from the States at whopping expensive shipping charges as I want to feed my cat premium cat food. But no comparison with Lagerfeld's cat, which has two maids and an exclusive chef. I envy his lifestyle lol.
6
I will miss you Karl Lagerfeld.
I saw Mr Lagerfield about 5 years ago heading into the Musee d'orsay. Fashion isn't my focus and it took about an hour for me to realise who he was ... felt a bit silly really.
1
I always thought he might be a cool guy. Now I know for sure. His comment on sweatpants is priceless.
8
As a teenager, I remember seeing Mr. Lagerfeld for the first time on an American afternoon talk show in the 60’s. He was so exotic sounding and mysterious looking, and he continually waved an ornate paper fan throughout the interview until the host asked him why. “I am trying to stop smoking and I need to do something with my hands.” RIP.
6
When I decided to ditch Wall Street to pursue a career in design, people who did not know me too well asked me why. I told them: I finally realized I always dreamed of becoming Karl Lagerfeld, I never dreamed of becoming Jack Welch. That was in 2002.
5
Ms Friedman, I would like you to write my obit.
I had ignorantly judged Lagerfeld only by his looks, and that ridiculous collar. I never bothered to dig any deeper, and so I never found out that he was someone I would’ve been interested in learning more about … and maybe learning from
It sounds like the man lived the life he wanted to live and loved living it, knew that he was lucky, and kept it in perspective. What more could you want in a life, and what more should we expect?
24
I have never heard the name of Karl Lagerfeild until today.
I just realized the achievement of him in fashion industry of the human society by this article and the news of his death.
Of course, I know the brand name, Chanel.
I can see those shops here and there in my town.
But, so ashamed I am that I did not know his name which had contributed to society mostly.
3
As a weaver and fabric designer I mourn his passing
1
I met Karl in 1974 in Paris. He was a wonderful friend - loyal, kind, generous of spirit, and he had a spectacular sense of humour. He was a great story-teller, and a fiendish impersonator. I will miss him. But he left me with a wild sketch he did of me, which is on my wall to this day, and which reminded me of his ability to speak as fast as he could draw! Ave atque vale, dear friend.
51
As much as I enjoy reading the Times for politics and opinion pieces I am just as enthralled with well written obituaries about people I knew nothing about. That was an interesting read and impressive work ethic. I’m impressed.
11
Several years ago I picked up a Vanity Fair magazine, I guess it was. Or something along those lines and read an article about Karl Lagerfeld. I don't remember many facts about the people, but I do remember that the person that he loved and had lived with had recently died. And KL was in grief. He made the statement that nothing in life compared to being able to live with the person that you love. And that when they are gone, life is empty. I never forgot that when I saw pictures of him or looked at those fascinating fashion presentations.
12
Compelling portrait, elegant writing.
10
Aware of himself and his place in the world.
He enjoyed both.
Endlessly.
9
So if he was born Sept 10, 1935, would that not make him 83 at his death?
1
My husband and I were in the bookstore Galignani in Paris. And there he was, Karl Lagerfeld. I walked as quickly and as purposefully as discreetly possible to my husband, "Look, there he is, Karl Lagerfeld." If I could have spoken in all caps, italics and bold, I would have.
The husband was, of course, unimpressed. "He's weird."
"He's KARL LAGERFELD."
If I had won the lottery, I would have bought his clothes. I might even have starved to look good in it.
Who cares about the Wall or Mueller or any of that stuff.
This man envisioned beautiful things and gave other people the chance to create them.
May he rest in peace and rise in the most glorious of kingdoms.
25
Certainly a towering figure in the fashion world! But, for some of us, Don Newcombe was more of a towering figure! May they both Rest in Peace...
4
Please note: He lived privately, alone with his 300,000 books and a wonderful animal. His own life was in moderation considering his passion for living his dreams. Work was not so much work as expression and it took years to develop - a life time. May he rest in peace having shown what can be done.
Note also it all starts in the family. I thank his parents for doing what they could, et al.....
9
So talented, So witty. I was lucky enough to be at the talk he did with Jessica Chastain in 2013. Salute to a life well-lived. I take inspiration from this man, living on his own terms.
9
Third try at a comment. Apparently you can't criticize a NYT legend. I found him to be a pompous man that persisted in ridiculing others, but had no stomach for self-reflection. I wish he'd had a change of heart prior to his passing.
39
You’re the one that sounds pompous. He made fun of everyone, most especially himself.
15
Yes, too bad he couldn't be what you thought he should be.
3
He was both cruel and crude. His comments about the faces and bodies of women were rude and unnecessary. His views on refugees and immigrants were likewise similar to opinions voiced by Trump.
Quite a bizarre double-standard.
60
No mention of his sexist cruel streak? Plenty of his comments echoed the worst from President Trump about a woman's face, another's weight, about #meToo, about refugees.
43
@Catherine so true, why is there literally no acknowledgement of his problematic behaviour?!
2
"People buy dresses to be happy, not to hear about somebody who suffered over a piece of taffeta."
Amen!
11
The essence of his life was to live one's life as one should - fearlessly your own whatever that maybe. And to define your life was you see it and hopefully bringing joy to others while bringing joy to yourself.
6
A am proud to own a variety of Karl's dresses, accessories, handbags and shoes, wearing them gives me confidence
and also makes me feel fashionable! A trip to my favorite store is in order before I cannot longer find his designs. Rest in
peace!
3
Well, to be honest, I was not a fan because of his use of fur, which Fendi is quite associated with, and now to learn that he coined such a term as "fun fur", well that's quite tasteless. As if the harvesting of animal skins is "fun". But that negative for me was, somewhat, outweighed by the adoration he showered on his cat, so willing to give him that. And otherwise, he made
a mark on the world, so tip of the hat to that as well.
13
@Sam
He lived in a age when fur was acceptable, my mom was an artist and talented cloth and fur coat designer, she did everything herself with her own hands, sometimes working through the night and sewing beautiful creation for me to wear.
In Russia at that time it was impossible to to get anything in the store, not only food but also decent attire...black market was extremely expensive to say the least.
I remember how she sew my graduation dress in one night, I was a singer of French chanson (mostly Edith Piaf...she was my idol) and the dress was just perfect, so is "La Vie en Rose"
3
I will miss you Karl.
You were an artist, provocatuer and marketing genius.
You kept working and doing what you loved right up until the end.
Rest in peace Karl.
3
"Mr. Lagerfeld lived alone in a Left Bank apartment crowded with books and clothes, sharing it only with a Birman cat called Choupette, who became as famous as her master, with her own maids, pillow, diamond necklaces and Instagram account."
I wonder who gets the cat?
I'd love to give her a home although I'm not sure how she would adapt to no maids, no diamond necklaces, no Instagram account, and would have to settle with sharing my bed with my husband. On the upswing, she would receive tons of love, affection, and constant scratching and brushing. I realize this could be viewed as a step down in the life of luxury, but she would be loved, unconditionally, until the day she passed.
Just throwing this offer out there. . . . anyone . . .
20
@Marge Keller
Maybe Choupette might like to be just a cat?
Never mind, not even my cats think they’re just cats...same goes for the dog. Hubs and I think we have pets, they know they have staff, lol.
8
I love your u-turn. Perhaps all other cats are cranky because they know about the life Lagerfeld’s cat lived and are acutely aware that they are not being provided the lifestyle to which they would like to become accustomed.
4
@Angelus Ravenscroft
If my cats and dog consent I’ll take Choupette as long as she comes with access to that fabulous library.....I’ll tolerate their crankiness for all those books!
The last of the romantic designers... who made clothes our escape from reality. Unlike most contemporary designers who think ripped, slim jeans and sweats are chic.
7
It’s the end of the era of riding things like a gore to get something out of them. Can we now have an era of loving collaboration?
3
I think Karl was playing it a lot for laughs. His image was a facade, to go with his carefully calibrated brand. It was just too bizarre and mannered not to be. Though he made some pretty snobbish comments about people he thought dowdy, and caused me to dislike him somewhat for doing so, he was a creative giant. Say what you will about his peculiar personality, he elevated fashion brands throughout the world with impeccable business acumen, and I have rarely heard of anyone in his industry saying bad things about him. He loved books, he loved his cat, he seemed to treat the women who modeled for him with respect, and he was an artist. We probably would have gotten along admirably. RIP, Mr. L. I was shocked and saddened to read of your passing, and with you, possibly, the passing of an era of amusing, stylish excess.
9
Men like Henry Ford were scions of the Machine Age. They made their fortunes in a society shaped by the marriage of industrial production and scientific management. It's actually called "Fordism."
Men like Lagerfeld made their fortune in a post-industrial, post-Fordist society shaped by consumer capitalism. He didn't produce cars, planes or steel rolls, his widget was a kind of branded pretension, a bourgeois consumable vanity. He called himself a "caricature" - a salable good - in a bit of self-reflective honesty from a man who at the end of the day preferred the company of cats.
Lagerfeld pioneered the 'consumer product as artist' which has now become ubiquitous. He wasn't an artist any more than anyone who has ever won a Grammy. Lagerfeld simply assembled artifacts of High Camp and the drag show in the same way that Louise Ciccone - aka "Madonna" - pastes together artifacts of (mostly gay) minority sub-cultures with a seven year old girl's synthesized voice. It's fine for what it is, but it's not "art."
7
A signature profile who will leave tears falling on his exit from the fashion mystique. He made, for the industry, another infinity. Idol, not to be forgotten.
1
Anyone, man or woman, who adores their feline the way Mr. Lagerfeld so obviously did, and cares for them so well, in KL's case, very very well, deserves a pre-punched ticket to heaven, no questions asked.
May he RIP and may Choupette grieve in much deserved luxury.
12
C'est dommage...the loss of creative mind is always sad.
He was eccentric and whimsical... we need more of this, too many uniformed characters in our world, with no imagination and originality of thought.
But I think he will not be bored up there...there could be new collections in the works for heaven and hell...i'm sure he wont be short of models and beautiful people.
7
I've been in several arguments over whether sweatpants constitute a sign of defeat. Stretchy, shapeless, lifeless. They do.
24
Shame on the writer here! Not one word of his Unbelievable Talent for sketching his creations. Would love to see Musee du Louvre mount a retrospective of just his drawings. As Leonardo once never said, "I judge a man's worth by his sketchbooks". Well, I said it anyway. Come on, Paris, make it happen!
27
How many of us will be truly original and a revelation to others? Very few. Karl Lagerfeld a beautiful example of an original life lived so very well. Rest in Peace
70
And my condolences to Choupette, Karl Lagerfeld's Birman cat. I know that sounds a bit nutty - but all animals grieve - and the fact that Karl wanted his ashes scattered before or after Choupette's death gave me a glimpse into how much his beloved Choupette meant to him. And I respect that! Condolences to Karl's family and extended family, as well. This is the end of an era which can never be replicated - it just can't - it was a special time with special, creative people that will go down in history as the glory days of fashion.
13
It’s a shame the animals he used in his creations were not thought of as highly as his cat.
10
Did he have something wrong with his eyes? Why the dark glasses all the time?
2
@Reader In Wash, DC
It’s a matter of a style obviously.
But additionally in answer to a journalist, he said: Near-sighted people often have somewhat sad looking eyes, like a puppy that’s hoping to get adopted.
:-)
2
Other than in the world of fashion, I would speculate most of the general public (in the US, anyway) probably don't know who Mr. Lagerfeld was. This makes me sad, but not as much as many of the people who do live and work in that world.
He will be sorely missed.
7
This cartoon character, Karl Lagerfeld, represents to me all this is pretentious and worthless about fashion. And why it almost broke my heart when my daughter at 14 told me she wanted to be a fashion designer. Oh well, she's made a lot of money.
22
You don’t like beautiful clothes? Beautiful furniture? Beautiful porcelain? Beautiful jewelry? Beautiful hair styles?
Too bad!
9
Worth, like beauty, lies in the eyes of the beholder. Congratulations to your daughter if she has created clothing that is attractive enough to enough people that she is doing well financially. The fashion world seems unduly frivolous to many, but your clothes not only influence others perceptions of you (“dress for success”), they often shape your perception of yourself. Many people get a real confidence boost from wearing the right outfit for the right occasion, or just simply love being able to express themselves with the clothes they wear. In commercial law, the general rule is that an object is only worth what someone else is willing to pay for it. It’s called fair market value, I believe. So your daughter is creating both worth and value. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure, right?
1
Did he do give back to society? Charities, social welfare? Not millionaires down on their luck or supermodels with eating disorders but something real.
20
For starters, he was paying way over 50% of his income in taxes in France all his life, and never complaining once about it.
12
Here's a comprehensive list, FYI.
https://www.looktothestars.org/celebrity/karl-lagerfeld
7
@Beyond Repair
Actually no, KL evaded paying his taxes for 15 long years. (Source: today's Le Monde.) When he was finally caught, the French IRS made him pay 16 million Euros. One wonders why the tax authorities didn't catch on earlier... Friends in high places?
8
I'm watching The Devil wears Prada in his honor...
9
Better watch a few of the Loïc Prigent documentaries about him...
1
@Beyond Repair
The era of post World-War II dies with Karl, when we could indulge into frivolous entertainment, high fashion and the eccentricities of the public persona of a creative fashion designer who designed himself as well. The world is in too bad a condition for the kind of playfulness that Karl incorporated. I hope it won't be Paris by the sea some day.
What a loss.
3
I'm sadden by the news of M. Lagerfeld's passing away!
Merci Beaucoup Karl for all the beauty, fairy-tale and fantasy you've created at Chanel since 1983!
Chanel is not only a legendary couture house but also a very successful ready-to-wear one! I credit Karl for Chanel's success because I love its ready-to-wear's quality, style, chicness and wearability! Some comments here said Lagerfeld discriminated againt women of large sizes but I've seen many Chanel jackets in unbelievably large sizes (even by American standard) at a luxury department store's fitting room! Wonder how the discrimination complaints reconcile what I saw in person.
With Karl's passing the last real genius of haute couture is gone and an truly elegant era has ended!
Wish Chanel best of luck to find someone who can fill the shoes of Karl's supersized creative talents!
Rest in peace, style and fabulousness, Karl!
I'll miss you dearly!
7
The fur industry is cruel and inhumane, and "fun fur" is an oxymoron.
26
Then don't wear fur. But please also refrain from wearing synthetic fibres. These fibres shed during washing and wear and end up as micro plastics polluting the environment (animals and man) for centuries. An estimated 12000 synthetic fibers end up in the water with every machine wash of a fleece jacket.
14
Amen ! Regarding no fur and no synthetics either! Lots of people are unaware of the problems with synthetic fibers and their impact on our oceans and wildlife.
Goodbye to a legend! I watched the 7 Days Out episode of the Chanel show on Netflix last month? as well. And wow! Karl's multi-lingual abilities and keen sense of style amazed me, especially since he was 85 at the time of that episode I believe. He did look a bit tired-as he did not end up taking a bow at the end of the show. The fashion world will miss him!
4
Salute! will miss you..I know the cosmos will be lit up by your spirit
2
“Sweatpants are a sign of defeat”
19
He was a Titan among fashion icons. RIP
3
Im sorry but his clothing is overpriced and mostly highly overrated.
24
Unlike so many celebrities we see in the media who “blow their own horns” ad nauseum” for paltry accomplishments, creative genius Karl Lagerfeld had no reason to be modest about his extraordinary achievements in the field of fashion and design. He was larger than life and had every right to be.
6
I'm heartbroken. I never met Mr. Lagerfeld, but have admired him on all levels for decades. He ranks with the greatest in this glorious world of fashion and design. I know Chanel will carry on, but it may never be as beautiful or as much fun.
28
If he "defined fashion", why doesn't he know that ties aren't wrapped outside the collar? Or how long a tie should be (hint: not Trump's length)? Or that no one save for him thinks polka dot jackets look cool? Or that only fools who think it makes them look cool wear sunglasses indoors? Seriously -- has anyone ever dressed like this without getting laughed at?
8
But he used fur.
How anyone can get beyond that is beyond me.
14
@Valerie
I agree with No fur. Also No meat. Do not cause suffering.
He should have used Fun Faux Fur! I can still admire him as an artist. I feel a loss.
Here is what he said about fur in a NYT interview https://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/05/fashion/karl-lagerfeld-on-fur-yea-selfies-nay-and-keeping-busy.html?_r=3
Chanel has stopped using fur.
5
And I've stopped wearing raw meat!
5
Great piece, indeed. But even he had one love and i think thats specially important as he is described as so emotionless. There is one Interview in which the Interviewer notes it might be the only time he took off his glasses in „public“ (its from the early 2000ends i think) when talking about Jacques de Basher. His face was a full display of hurt and despair, the Interviewer noted. He might not seem like one, but in the end he is human and i feel that would have given the piece it’s final balance. But, great piece!
7
I met him in the 80s in Los Angeles. He was the epitome of Germanic elegance. RIP KL.
7
Karl’s collections were increasingly hit-or-miss near the end of his career, but he was a talent and fashion monolith nonetheless. Rest In Peace. Best of luck to Virginie Viard and Chaupette.
4
What a beautiful piece about a most interesting human being. His perfume, KL, has been my go to scent for thirty years.
9
I just watched the Chanel episode of 7 Days Out on Netflix last night. KL came across as witty, discerning, warm and no-nonsense. At his age, with a life time of knowledge and all of the insight it gives you, and to be ceaselessly pouring it into your work, what will Chanel do now, or Fendi, for that matter. It’s like losing Bill Cunningham. There is no replacement.
61
I once saw him in a bookstore on rue de Lille. He was buying art books/coffee table books obviously by the dozen, I saw a shop attendant moving a pile of books that stretched literally from her hips to her neck.
Not many rich people buy that many books.
44
@nestor potkine
"Not many rich people buy that many books."
???
8
@nestor potkine well, except for the French. America's rich buy banks, Italians buy politicians, but the French (all icomes) worship books, and buy books, and they read them too!
8
As a person who has never come near the fashion world on that level- haute couture, runway shows- it is very interesting to read about it, like entering magical country for a minute or two. Such beautiful clothes, such trivial pursuits! Lagerfeld was not my idea of a cultural hero, but he certainly was an unwavering king on the field of fashion.
50
@LoriM, it is not trivial. Unlike trickle-down economics, the haute couture effects what people buy at Target, and particularly H&M and Zara.
Karl recognized early that street style had a place in couture and high-end readt-to-wear. His genius was that he could marry the two and keep it fresh. Was he an originator of a new style? No. But he had no equal in the evolution of style.
5
There aren't many subjects that I care less about than fashion design. But even -I- know who Karl Lagerfeld was, and I admire his accomplishments over such a long career. To coin a popular phrase, Karl Lagerfeld didn't just set the bar higher, Karl Lagerfeld WAS the bar. I salute his memory.
27
I worked at Chanel in 1983 and remember when Karl Lagerfeld was brought in by then President Kitty D'Allessio. No one then could have predicted his impact nor his longevity. He was one of a kind.
33
Someone should make a movie based on him.
8
@Jean -- I am sure they will!
So here's my takeaway:
He spent his life telling women what to wear. His own "style" was a contrived uniform and never changed.
Of his connection with the House of Chanel, he said “Chanel is an institution, and you have to treat an institution like a whore — and then you get something out of her.”
Definitely one of the great geniuses of the century.
Next, please.
42
@LJ - I've read about him for years. I don't ever recall him telling anyone what to wear.
@DR The act of designing clothing is "telling people what to wear." As in, "I designed this--please buy it and wear it." How could designing clothes NOT be "telling people what to wear"?? That is what LJ meant (it's certainly how I read it).
3
Oh, his uniform certainly did change. This last look was only for about 20 years or so. Previously he mainly dressed in nice suits, not eccentric.
1
What will happen to Choupette?
48
@June
Choupette is taken care of by an inheritance arrangement. KL explicitly mentioned that in an interview.
3
Thank you, Mr. Lagerfeld!!!
8
Very interesting article about a creator whom great volumes have been and will be written about. Speaking of writing about, why did you not state the names of the models in the photos you posted? Only celebrities deserve to have their names in the NYT? And celebrity cats?
17
What, pray, will he wear in his coffin? Surely he has made arrangements.
10
Doubtless, and his obituary as well. However, it's hard to imagine an obituary more brilliant and fitting than this one. Well done!
7
He’s apparently getting cremated. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.
1
Auf wiedersehen, Karl Lagerfeld.
You took Chanel’s stuffy old wool tweeds and breathed new life into them. I’ll draw inspiration from your red 1990s minidress and 1980s cardigan jacket as I stitch my own interpretation of Karl Lagerfeld doing Chanel. I received my yardage of lipstick red boucled wool just yesterday. Joy tempered by sadness upon hearing of your death. Rest In Peace on the earth of your choosing.
76
Rest in Fabulousness, Mr. Lagerfeld. If Choupette is looking for a home, I have room.
23
Who will run his cat's Instagram account now?
16
"A self-identified “caricature,” with his dark glasses, powdered ponytail, black jeans, fingerless gloves, starched collars, Chrome Hearts jewelry - and obsessive Diet Coke consumption..."
Well - it's nice to learn that I have at least one thing in common with one of the great creative personas of our generation...
17
RIP Karl Lagerfeld. I find it interesting that he had such a large book collection, but I need to get a copy of "The World According to Karl" - ..."Some choice excerpts: “Sweatpants are a sign of defeat,” and “I’m very much down to earth. Just not this earth.”...LOL.
15
I watched a profile of Karl where he suddenly sat at a desk and began to draw effortlessly in seconds one incredible sketch after another. Pen and ink. Every silhouette was perfect and then he would set aside. Each sketch took roughly 30 seconds. This is what made Karl great. Very few people can do this. I was blown away by this talent and it is what I will remember about him. From what I have read most modern designers have no ability to illustrate. He was an old school craftsman who was a master of his trade.
69
"Fun fur?" As long as you are not the original owner of the coat, that is...
41
@John "Fun Fur" was a successful rebranding scheme by Chanel, as a market influencer, to phase-out the desire-and-demand for animal fur - and it succeeded, as synthetics became very PC. You won, John, and the animals won, too.
2
@Pebbles Plinth The obituary states that he shaved and dyed mink and sable.
What a tremendous loss and inspirational character:
“More than anyone I know, he represents the soul of fashion: restless, forward-looking and voraciously attentive to our changing culture.” Anna Wintour
14
Merci beaucoup and danke for this lovely article on Mr. Lagerfeld. He was a true designer and visionary. His loss will be felt by many in the creative arts field, as well as by the many, many people outside of that field who nonetheless appreciated his persona and recognized his far-reaching impact on fashion. He will truly be missed.
And my condolences to Choupette and his human family.
45
Admittedly not en point with respect to the passing of Mr. Lagerfeld, this is not the first article in the NYT or other sources that expresses a dash of awe at the number of languages spoken and/or read by someone. This reflects both our geographic insularity and resulting unwillingness to give other languages a priority in education. Many Europeans have an absolute need to be multilingual. A Dutchman told me that almost everyone in the Netherlands speaks at least two additional languages, English and German, because of simple commercial requirements. There are parts of Eastern Europe where - at least pre-war - Yiddish, Polish, Russian, German and other languages were all spoken in the same towns and many grew up speaking all of them. We, on the other hand, think it fairly exotic that someone is fluent in two languages, even when one of them is Spanish, the language of our largest physical neighbor and of growing Hispanic communities across the country. Large cities such as the San Francisco of my youth and New York today are places where, respectively, you could and can hear multiple languages just walking down the street. Too bad most can't understand much or any of what they are hearing.
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@Petros
Scandinavians speak everything an do it well.
3
@cl Very true in my experience. Pardon the omission!
1
I love everything Scandanavian!
1
The loss of Lagerfeld has left me feeling the same as when St.Laurent died. A visionary has left the fashion world.
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I loved Mr. Lagerfeld's look and mystique, not to mention his designs. RIP Mr. Lagerfeld. Now who will mind Choupette?
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I've occasionally considered his ideas of creativity and mined them for ways to think better and to do better things.
I will still consider his examples even now since the need for doing things creatively doesn't die with one person.
3
Brilliant Obit V Friedman!
Best Sentence ever!!!
"That is to say, the creative force who lands at the top of a heritage brand and reinvents it by identifying its sartorial semiology and then wresting it into the present with a healthy dose of disrespect and a dollop of pop culture."
11
Amazing! I quoted this sentence myself in a comment. I really is quite a sentence.
1
@Diana: IMO, that specific sentence encompasses everything idiotically pretentious about "fashion" and the people who worship it. And it kind of goes with Ms. Friedman's "Here to help" pronouncements: the Fashion Queen speaketh from on high to enlighten the peasants. It's all just hot air with no meaning. "Here to help" is just filler; there was a time when the NY Times had genuinely important news to put in that space!
2
Sad to read about the ending of such a rich life and I don't mean that in crass monetary terms. Inspiring to see one who got better looking with age. Lovely cat, lovely clothes. Many may demean him for being less than 'creative' or think him derivative, but what is more important to me and to my eye is his clothing; no matter what label he was designing for his clothes were not ridiculous. (I have been rolling my eyes at what I have seen on the fall runways. It's like designing an awful chair no one would possibly want to sit in.) Back to Mr. Lagerfeld. It would never be possible for me to buy even a handbag let alone a Channel suit, but alas I have always worn Channel #22 perfume.
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Fashion is a test of ones cowed nature. Follow, and follow in a way that is without purpose.
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And let’s live in a world without creativity. Let’s all live in gray brick boxes. Without decoration. None of it serves a purpose. Communist Russia could serve as a model.
I’m always amazed at how hostile people get towards art. They get angry that such frivolous things cost so much. Ironically they don’t even know who Thorstein Veblen is.
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@BillBo: "Let's live in a world without creativity"? Do you always take everything to an extreme?
I'm amazed at how hostile people get toward those who don't buy-in to every fad and trend.
BTW, I know who Thorstein Veblen is, since we read some of his work when I was in high school. He's very, very funny!
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@BillBo
I don't think you necessarily have to be hostile towards art to find fault with the fashion industry. Fashion, above many other artful pursuits, is based on superficial image, monetary reward, and having the "right people" accept you. It loses its artistry quickly when it becomes just an issue of the right socialites, the right fashion journalists, and the right models allowing you in their circle. It's highschool politics on a grander scale.
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I last spotted Karl in the bookshop Les Ecumes des Pages on Blvd St Germain. Among his passions were good books, and Coke Zero. Adieu gentil prince.
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@BB Kuett
unfortunately, Coke Zero doesn't exist anymore either.
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@cl I just drank some yesterday. It wasn't hidden away in a bunker, either.
1
I bought a case of Coke Zero yesterday. It’s way better than diet coke. Also comes in caffeine-free and a couple of flavors (Vanilla Coke Zero?)
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The world of fashion, like all art, including music, dance, painting and drawing and sculpture is like religion: there is no objective measure of quality or truth or beauty. The value of a particular artists/designer is all a matter of belief, not proof.
This is not meant in any way to belittle Lagerfeld; he was clearly at the top level of his field during his lifetime. But for those drawn to more mundane pursuits, like science or athletics, encomiums like this are outweighed by the career of another esteemed performer in the obituaries today: Don Bragg, gold medalist in the Olympics. And a couple of days ago, Gene Littler, US Open Champion. On the best days of their lives they were legitimately ranked above all of their peers.
Lagerfeld vs. Chanel vs. St. Laurent? Like the Oscars and Golden Globes, they are opinion polls.
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@Nat Ehrlich Some behaviors, like the speed of a runner, can be 'measured' in ways we glorify as 'objective.' And as you point out, others, like creating a garment of fabric, can not be. My opinion is that a difference of a tenth of a second in a race is not of any importance. I have read that Mr Lagerfeld championed the doing over the product.
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@Nat Ehrlich
"Outweigh" to the likes of a person running with a pole or a guy hitting a ball around the grass? Why? Why bother with the comparison? And seriously, I had to google those two.
Lagerfeld has had major influence for decades. The the Oscars and Golden Globes and Olympics and FedEx Cup in fashion are sales and brand recognition and longevity. Maybe fashion is just not your thing...?
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Kaiser Karl,
I remember many, many years ago seeing pictures of Mr. Lagerfeld as an older very overweight man, and then it seemed like overnight he lost the 92 lbs. and kept it off!!! That feat was as remarkable as his beautiful clothes.
RIP Karl, you will be forever missed.
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@Devil Moon Yes, fellow Oregonian, his diet and exercise book was very inspirational, to me, for many of the same reasons, as I lost 35 pound (174 to 140) for the same reasons, so clothes would fit (again) and pure, selfish pride in appearance. But the book is really a testament to obsession and total immersion in a given subject, by surrounding himself with collaborators, smart people who can execute ideas and concepts.
3
Mr. Lagerfeld was the most prolific designer of the 20th and 21st centuries.
Really? He was? The 21 century isn't 1/4 over, yet.
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@Moehoward I'm a Versace fan myself. Donatella has shouldered on magnificently, and of course there is Tom Ford of li'l ol' Santa Fe, New Mexico.
@Marti, nope Donatello is no Gianni which is why she probably sold the House of Versace to Michael Kors last year. She may have been Gianni’s muse but Gianni she most assuredly is not.
Earth is truly a more boring planet today with the loss of Karl Lagerfeld. There are no other adjectives I can use that haven't been written in this lovely obituary or heartfelt comments. I don't mean to be flip by writing this but the world would be much more tolerable if people would stop and think to themselves, "What would Karl do?"
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Mr. Karl Lagerfeld was soft spoken and with etiquette. Actually I met him once at Dior Homme boutique. He was accompanied by his assistants. I would describe his attire as his ‘signature’, rather than ‘caricature’. For more than 20 years, he had a penchant of gigantic sunglasses, silver pointy tails, outstanding neckties and a uniform look alike style. The predilection attracted confimation and negation. In my opinion, they fit him and his visage. I indulge in his Chanel’s design. It can never be stemming from owning a luxury but it is a mirth of being beautiful. From contemporary to suits to the gowns, they successfully bring out the sense of female and the inherent beauty. No one wants to see him go. It is shocking not exclusively in the fashion industry, but also in the heart of our history. His proactivity and genuine passion were applauded. Some people said his longevity in career was his desire for ambition and haughtiness. However, he and a sense of divinity were inseparable. Mr. Karl Lagerfeld, your ingenuity never comes to an end. Thank you.
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A comment almost as well written as the obituary itself. Enjoyable reading!
I'm sorry for his family, and rest his soul, but this man is responsible for discrimination of people of size - as in "any woman that's not a size 4." I'm very happy that people who could afford his garb had something fabulous to wear. (eyeroll) But I shed no tears here.
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A great obit. for a person with whom I was rarely cognizant I now feel that I know him very well.
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This is sad news indeed. KL wasn't always likeable with some remarks attributed to him. He demanded much of his models who had to be reed thin with very thin arms or so I read in various articles. I was a big fan of all his designs but Fendi touched my heart. I'd swoon and sigh and wish I was able to own some. (I'm not mentioning I wished I could fit in them. I always admired KL's discipline. He lost 92 pounds and kept it off. That takes discipline). His remark 'sweatpants are a sign of defeat' made me laugh but oh how true.
Goodbye to a talented and creative Prince of Fashion.
12
An inoclast and a genius. Lagerfeld loved his job and it showed in his magnificent creations. He didn't mince words about the industry. His quote to a fashion writer says it all, "Please don't say I work hard.Nobody is forced to do this job, and if they don't like it they should do another one. People buy dresses to be happy, not to hear about somebody who suffered over a piece of taffeta." Thank you Vanessa Friedman for a beautiful tribute.
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Even more than his stunning collections or his legendary persona, I will remember Lagerfeld as the last "Renaissance Man" of his field - a creative tour de force who was as conversant in art, history, politics, architecture, and literature as he was in fashion. Reading his interviews (although gobsmacked by his hilarity, or his arrogance, or my inability to determine where one ended and the other begin) I was always struck by his tremendous intellectual depth.
There are precious few people like this left in the field. Look who are the self-described "fashion designers" of today - Kanye, half of the Real Housewives of wherever, countless pop stars, trust fund babies, you name it. Lagerfeld was on another plane altogether. He showed what utter devotion to the creative arts looked like, and for that I mourn his passing and salute his memory.
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Genius, (a) character, style. So many of our older icons are passing.
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"Nobody is forced to do this job, and if they don’t like it they should do another one. People buy dresses to be happy, not to hear about somebody who suffered over a piece of taffeta." So true, and so generalizable.
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I found him both fascinating AND insufferable, like fashion itself. He was an iconoclast first and foremost. For all of what may be called his pretension, his impact on fashion was really quite egalitarian, and his ethos is evident in the designs of others, available in retailers from Bergdorf's to Target.
46
He was Provocative.
As Karl might say, "What else is there?"
Thank you Karl, for making us think.
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What I know about fashion you can fit on the back of a postage stamp, and still have room for a small grocery list. But I always found Karl a fascinating character. I've read a few of his print interviews. And you can tell by his answers to the questions, that he was widely read. His quote from the article: “I’m very much down to earth. Just not this earth.” I can relate.
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Inspiring! Thank you, Ms. Friedman.
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He was my inspiration. Bring on the fingerless gloves!
8
All these years I was intrigued with him and touched when I found out he how much he enjoyed having his Godson around and how much he loved his kitty....am surely going to miss him on this Earth...
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Most of his designs are not ridiculous. They look wearable by women in many social situations.
That is the highest compliment I have ever paid to a fashion designer. (Okay, it is also the first compliment I have ever paid to a fashion designer.)
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Thank you so much for this article. What a wonderful tribute to the unique and unforgettable Karl Lagerfeld!
Obviously I do not own anything by Chanel, but I am forever thankful and grateful to Karl Lagerfeld for the way he made me dream with the gorgeous clothes he created, as well as the stunning settings the shows took place in. Karl Lagerfeld made us travel all around the world, as well as through times and centuries.
I also love the way he managed to remain faithful to Gabrielle Chanel's heritage, as well as to adapt it to the contemporary world. The clothes he designed were elegant, beautiful, and wearable - which are, surprisingly enough, rather rare qualities in high fashion.
There was no vulgarity, no provocation, just pure beauty and elegance.
To be honest, he was definitely one of those persons I would have loved to meet face-to-face. Sadly that will not happen, but I feel that we are very lucky to have had such a personnality, such a talent in this world.
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When the movie, "Babette's Feast" came out, I watched it and was enthralled by the story line. That is, until the scene when the central character goes to the beach to meet incoming boats filled with food. It was that black cape she had on. It was simple -- no fancy gold ornaments or buttons or pearls. But it flowed in the wind in a way I'd never seen before, except in animated films. For the rest of the movie,I couldn't get my mind off that piece of clothing. What made it so magical? And then, as the credits rolled by at the end, there was Mr. Lagerfeld's name. Of course. Yes, genius.
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@KB
Wow, what an interesting fact!!! I remember that cloak and that scene. Now, I want to see it again. It never occurred to me to look for the designer. So much richness in that movie to see and feel.
5
Interestingly, I just purchased a Karl Lagerfeld jacket yesterday, somehow drawn to it. I was intent on finding out more about him, and here it is! I am sad though that it is upon his passing. Thank you for an excellent synopsis of a very fascinating life.
16
Although I could never afford his clothes, I found Lagerfeld to be endlessly fascinating.
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There will never be another Karl.
Adieu mon prince.
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An old soul if if ever was one!
20
There is no Q he revived the House of Chanel and took it to higher and more elegant levels.
A legend in his own mind, he forced Burberry, Gucci, Fendi, and even Prada to reinvent themselves into a more stylish and sophisticated trends, just to catch up with Chanel.
Surely he will be missed.
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all creatives need to remember these words: “Ideas come to you when you work”. ciao, KL
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A brilliant designer and a master of reinvention Lagerfrld’s prolific career was as legendary as his dismissive attitude towards “ larger women, models, and the ethics of the fashion machine. Someone who definitely marched to the beat of his own drum.
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RE: - "and founder of his own line, Mr. Lagerfeld...
The singular LBD hanging in my closet with his label just took on new meaning.
It needed no outer embellishments. It simply was and is Lagerfeld.
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I'm not familiar with the phrase he had "no truck with any complaints"....
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@alex It means that he had no problem with the complaints. That they did not bother him.
3
@alex truck = patience
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@stuart williams
Actually it means the opposite.
3
His models actually smiled ON THE RUNWAY from time to time.
Truly revolutionary for our day.
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@Z
Hmmmm, that must have been an accident. Surely not intentional.
2
85? Thought he was 72. this at least what he made us believe: a life of perfected superficial illusion. But he was a legend. Rest in style Karl.
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@Oliver "Rest in Style" Excellent!!
3
Genius is a word too often thrown about, but in Lagerfeld’s case, it’s the best word to use. He was also an artist and an iconoclast. He was intelligent and fun, as well. Anyone who focuses just on the prohibitive cost of his creations is missing the point: most of us can’t afford a Degas either, but we sure can appreciate the beauty and influence of the art and its artist. Rest in peace, monsieur.
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What a character. The world is a sadder place without him.
31
He was prolific, powerful, rich, creative, and in the fashion world a force of nature but one thing stands out more than anything to me in the life of Karl Lagerfeld--I have never ever seen him smile. I have never seen joy or passion, or elation cross his face. Not once.
Which makes me wonder over his life of richness. Can you really consider yourself rich when your face is sullen/frozen, through an entire lifetime?
Another point totally off the grid of his life. Bruno Ganz died over the weekend. His obituary did not do him justice at all. It was thin and without emotion written by someone who was not up to the task of such greatness as Ganz. One can't compare apples and oranges but Ganz, for what he gave the world, deserved an entire body of passion--the kind he gave in every performance throughout his lifetime. Given the two losses of these men, I am haunted by the loss of Ganz and feel it personally as if he had been a dear friend who was fully naked with me emotionally and showed me the inside of his greatness and soul. He was a great teacher as well.
Karl, not so much.
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@C T About Mr. Lagerfeld not smiling: when I worked in Beauty in the 1980s, I noticed the same affectation in a couple of older women who had no lines on their face and great skin. So, I inquired what was going on and why no smiles. Both women were perfectly nice and indulged my youthful question: they wanted to look their best for as long as possible and not spend money on procedures with an uncertain outcome.
Isn't it likely Mr. Lagerfeld wanted to avoid the downtime required by procedures, while looking young?
5
Why must one compare such losses? Each was unique.
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@C T Karl Lagerfeld embodies the rich and out of touch elite to me. Beautiful clothes is about the only legacy he did leave. eh.
6
End of an era. He lived a good and long life, but it is still sad to read of his passing.
13
Several years ago while on vacation, Mr Lagerfeld (along with three other people) walked past me and my husband on an empty street in Paris in the middle of the day. I was so stunned to see him in person I was left speechless. In my mind this man was larger than life and such a creative genius. Such a loss to the fashion industry.
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@kathryn When I worked in Beauty in the 1980s, he came to Chicago to promote his Lagerfeld fragrance and indeed was larger than life.
There is no replacement for his genius.
9
What a wonderfully-written tribute. Karl Lagerfeld was a magnificent force of nature whose contributions to fashion will continue to dominate conversations long after his passing.
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Now please do as much for Bruno Ganz.
Really well-written obituary. Truly one of the saddest days in fashion history - certainly in my lifetime. A time for mourning, as well as for celebrating his legacy, and most importantly I'm sure he would say, time to move on and keep working.
13
Thank you for this well written and interesting obituary!
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His arrogance was astounding. As were his designs. Especially for Chanel. He will be missed.
25
A Royal has died this day.
22
The only exception I take about this article is that Karl Lagerfeld was the most prolific designer of the 20th and 21st century.
During the 20th century that honour, at least in my opinion, clearly belonged to Yves Saint Laurent, who only worked for two fashion houses, Dior and then established his own brand lasting decades.
102
Before all the fashion snark (inevitable) comes out, let's just recognize and appreciate the extraordinary sustained creativity of this man's mind. Yes, he needed many to pull it off - just watch the documentary Signe Chanel - but it all sprang from one highly gifted and rigorously trained human. Au revoir, Karl.
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The “Lagerfeld" is a beautiful lavender rose with an exquisite aroma. It honors the man and will live on. RIP Mr. Lagerfeld, your rose will keep bringing joy to all who encounter it.
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Perhaps one of the best paragraphs ever written, regardless of the subject matter: “That is to say, the creative force who lands at the top of a heritage brand and reinvents it by identifying its sartorial semiology and then wresting it into the present with a healthy dose of disrespect and a dollop of pop culture.”
NYT obituaries make for great reading.
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@Cliff Agree. I was taught to read the New York Times obituaries from practically the time I could read. I will read them until the day I die. Unfortunately, my obituary won't be appearing in the paper.
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@Cliff
Disagree completely. The last half of this obituary is a straightforward recital of Mr. Langerfeld's biography. The first half, which discusses his "creative force," does not contain two consecutive sentences that make sense. Of course, that is perfect for describing the world of haute couture.
13
Thanks for the chuckle :-)
The last great genius of the couture.
20
@Nancy Cohen Evidence of his genius: 'A self-identified “caricature,...”. I will don my sweatpants today, as I feign surrender.
32
I would like to have seen his derision towards women larger than size 10 addressed in this article. He did much to marginalize and belittle these women and should be remembered for doing so.
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@Dk Karl Lagerfeld spent an entire lifetime revolutionizing women's fashion and you believe he should be remembered only by this? Haute Couture isn't produced for the masses that are, unarguably, larger than the fashion standard size six. To be embittered by one thing, even after someone passes, points to something of a more personal issue.
166
@Dk There's a lovely video of Tess Holliday circulating on the intertubes right now. She's engorging herself, eating her birthday cake, which bears an image of herself. She's not eating a piece, but the whole cake. Enjoy.
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@Regina Valdez
Heartily disagree.
He was producing for women - and women come in all sizes. Not all women with money are slender - far from it. Lagerfeld's unkindness toward "plus" sized women probably spoke more to HIS personal and embittered issues than this poster's.
(There is an infamous photo of him gorging on a McDo burger/coke that can probably still be quite easily accessed.)
And, for what it's worth, I am a totally "normal" sized person.
36
The very definition of an icon, and his own greatest creation.
A huge loss for fashion, and the end of an era.
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@Michael
I had my picture taken with Karl and Brad about ten years ago and then used it as my screen saver. I emailed this screensaver to my boss (who was also in the photo) with the subject line: Icon Amongst Icons. Some time later she replied: I get it.
4
The world is poorer for this loss.
I have nothing to do with fashion, but I admired Mr. Lagerfeld for his voracious and uncompromising view of life. I earnestly hope that I will live my life as well as he lived his.
Thank you, Karl
32
As an old-timer (87yrs.) who covered the Ready to Wear collections in Europe for many, many years, I remember the early
Chloe shows Lagerfeld created and some of the wonderful dresses he did for the collection. His enormous creativity flourished at Chanel however and lasted for many years. In his work for Fendi, he changed the look of furs forever and surely began the fun fur trend. Although German, the French finally accepted him in Paris as his multi-talents could not be ignored.
There is no one like him today, and this loss represents a real ending to fashion as we knew it. With St. Laurent and now Lagerfeld gone , it's over.
168
Farewell Karl.
Coming of age as a designer in the industry when Karl was shaking up what a sacred fashion label meant, my friends and I would follow his lead as avidly as any sports devotees.
Quirky and fierce, he represented the merging of the best of respect for tradition and CRAFT, while always moving the needle of classic style.
A master teacher from afar.
58