Fendi bid a heartfelt farewell to the legendary Karl Lagerfeld on Thursday in Milan, as they unveiled his final collection for the house. Lagerfeld, who had been a revered figure at Fendi for over five decades, passed away at the age of 85. The atmosphere at the show was filled with emotion and reverence, as models walked down the runway in Lagerfeld’s futuristic designs, complete with sleek hair and avant-garde glasses.
Among the attendees were Bella and Gigi Hadid, who closed the show in ethereal chiffon dresses paired with Fendi logo tights. The mood was undeniably emotional, with tears shed by both models and spectators alike. Silvia Venturini Fendi, in her poignant program notes, paid tribute to Lagerfeld’s unwavering dedication to the collection, highlighting his extraordinary talent and influence.
Throughout Lagerfeld’s tenure, he revolutionized Fendi by creating the iconic reverse double-F logo, a symbol of luxury and sophistication. This legacy was honored in the collection, with the logo prominently displayed on a range of garments and accessories. From luxurious leather blousons to intricately tailored blazers, Lagerfeld’s attention to detail shone through in every piece.
The show concluded with a nod to Lagerfeld’s irreverent spirit, as Lou Reed and John Cale’s song “Small Town” played in the background. Despite protests from anti-fur activists outside, the show continued as a tribute to Lagerfeld’s immense impact on the fashion world. As the Roman poet Virgil once said, “Those who excel, thus reach the stars.” Lagerfeld’s unparalleled talent has truly left a lasting legacy at Fendi, ensuring that his influence will continue to inspire generations to come.
To learn more about Karl Lagerfeld’s iconic career at Fendi, click here. For a closer look at the final collection presented in Milan, visit Fendi’s official website.
