Karl Lagerfeld: The Great Time Traveler
Weaving the Elegance of the Past with the Innovation of the Future
Karl Lagerfeld was a designer who seamlessly bridged two worlds: the opulence of the 18th and 19th centuries and the relentless pursuit of modern innovation.
His love for Louis XV rugs, Meissen plates, and a striking black-and-white palette was less about nostalgia and more about creating “an atmosphere than anything! It is poésie, a dream,” he shared in a 1989 Vogue interview. Lagerfeld’s poetic attachment to design was rooted in crafting spaces that felt immersive and alive rather than static displays of history.
Creamy tones like crême de cantal and custom-woven velvet complemented his Art Deco collections and broader aesthetic. Yet, his fascination with the 18th century never anchored him in the past. His declaration, “Anything dusty, dirty, musty—forget about it. I like my 19th-century fresh,” encapsulated his approach: reimagining history with a pristine, modern perspective. This duality infused his designs for Chanel, Fendi, and his eponymous label.
The Evolution of His Homes: Reflections of Change
Lagerfeld’s homes were living embodiments of his ever-evolving creative mindset. “I don’t want to become attached, and I detach myself when it is time,” he once said—a rare sentiment for someone so deeply inspired by history yet constantly looking toward the future. Each of his residences mirrored a chapter of his creative journey, offering a glimpse into his inspirations and aspirations at any given moment.
