After an impressive career spanning almost 40 years, Eric Pfrunder has bid farewell to one of the world’s most iconic fashion houses, Chanel. Pfrunder, famously known as Karl Lagerfeld’s right-hand man for all things related to ads, image, and photography, brought his cosmopolitan background and artistic eye to the company.
After Lagerfeld’s passing in February 2019, Pfrunder was named as joint artistic director of Chanel, working alongside creative director Virginie Viard. His role encompassed a wide range of responsibilities, from overseeing advertising and marketing to managing films, events, and digital content. However, as Viard began to make her mark and collaborate with various renowned photographers such as Juergen Teller, Karim Sadli, and Inez & Vinoodh, Pfrunder’s influence at Chanel gradually diminished.
A spokesperson for Chanel has affirmed that Pfrunder has left the company due to his retirement. According to insider sources, he departed from the fashion house two months ago. Pfrunder’s departure comes as another significant figure close to Lagerfeld exits Chanel, following the departure of Amanda Harlech, Lagerfeld’s intellectual muse. Although Harlech initially announced her departure in November 2019, she later took on a consulting role with the brand.
Pfrunder’s connection with Chanel dates back to 1983 when Lagerfeld enlisted his help to elevate the quality of a campaign shoot. Impressed by Pfrunder’s talent, Lagerfeld soon started shooting campaigns himself, with Pfrunder always by his side. Pfrunder became a fixture during Lagerfeld’s photo sessions, often at 7L, Lagerfeld’s bookshop and photo studio in Paris. He also played a fundamental role in guiding Lagerfeld’s transition from analog to digital photography.
Following Lagerfeld’s passing, Pfrunder was entrusted with the important task of curating the designer’s extensive archive, which included campaigns, portraits, magazine shoots, and architectural studies. Pfrunder’s expertise in this area continues to be invaluable to Chanel. In January, he announced his involvement with Lukso, a blockchain startup, demonstrating his expansion into other professional pursuits outside of Chanel.
As Virginie Viard’s distinctive designs gain commercial success, it is evident that she aims to forge her own path and differentiate her vision from Lagerfeld’s legacy. This desire for change has likely contributed to Pfrunder’s diminishing influence within the fashion house.
Eric Pfrunder’s departure truly marks the end of an era at Chanel. Having dedicated almost four decades to the brand, his contributions to Chanel’s advertising, image, and photography cannot be overstated. As Chanel moves forward under new leadership, it will be fascinating to witness the evolution of the brand’s aesthetic and the impact of Pfrunder’s absence on future campaigns and creative direction.
Useful links related to the article:
1. Chanel Official Website
2. Vogue Fashion Shows
