Disappeared just a year ago at the age of 85, Karl Lagerfeld was a legendary fashion designer known for his ability to constantly reinvent himself. As the Creative Director of Chanel since 1983, Lagerfeld transformed each Maison’s runway show into a must-see event during Paris Fashion Week. From 2005 onwards, the iconic glass roof of the Grand Palais became synonymous with the extravagant presentations of Chanel’s collections.
Let’s take a look back at ten unforgettable runway shows that showcased Lagerfeld’s unique style. One such show took place on March 5, 2019, just after Lagerfeld’s passing. His right-hand woman, Virginie Viard, carried on his legacy and crafted a show that included a poignant tribute to Lagerfeld. A minute of silence was observed under the stunning dome of the Grand Palais.
On October 2, 2018, Lagerfeld and his team created a beach-inspired runway show inspired by Sylt, Germany. Models walked on fine sand with artificial waves crashing nearby, while embracing the trend of double-worn bags crossed over their chests.
Another notable show was the Fall/Winter 2018 Haute Couture collection, where Lagerfeld captured the essence of Paris by reimagining 1950s silhouettes. The runway show took place under the glass roof of the Grand Palais, with models strolling past the charming bookstalls along the Seine. The display included not only Chanel publications but also vintage fashion magazines and books from Lagerfeld’s personal collection of over 300,000 books.
In May 2018, for the Cruise 2018-2019 runway show, models made a stop in Paris. Inspired by Gabrielle Chanel’s residence in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, the Chanel silhouettes symbolized a return to the house’s fundamentals and its founder’s love for the maritime world.
One of Lagerfeld’s most breathtaking creations was transforming the nave of the Grand Palais into the Gardens of Versailles in January 2018. The collection was reminiscent of a previous runway show held in the palace’s gardens in 2012 and featured a bucolic wardrobe meandering through a labyrinthine rose garden.
Lagerfeld continued to immerse audiences in extraordinary settings. A standout from October 2017 was when models walked in a recreated tropical forest under a cliff adorned with a gigantic waterfall. Meanwhile, the July 2017 show saw Chanel conquer the luxury of the Eiffel Tower, standing just two kilometers away, as the backdrop for their High Couture creations.
Not only did Lagerfeld create grand sets for his runway shows, but he also showcased his creativity in the presentation of ready-to-wear collections. In the Fall/Winter 2017-2018 season, he displayed a gigantic rocket as part of his #CHANELGroundControl theme. The rocket, representing the label, was exhibited on Rue Cambon and even took off during the presentation.
Lagerfeld’s imagination knew no bounds. In October 2015, he transformed the Grand Palais into an airport terminal, complete with check-in counters and a chic control tower, inviting everyone to escape. The Fall/Winter 2014-2015 runway show will forever be remembered for its supermarket-themed set, where Lagerfeld turned the venue into an exclusive Chanel-branded supermarket. The show ended with guests eagerly grabbing Chanel-branded goods showcased on the set.
The list of Lagerfeld’s incredible sets goes on, including a Swedish iceberg, an autumnal forest, a wind farm, a golden lion, an eight-meter high Chanel jacket, and a monumental globe. Throughout his over sixty years in the fashion industry, Lagerfeld shaped the world of fashion according to his own vision and codes. For him, luxury meant freedom of spirit and independence, even if it meant being politically incorrect.
Useful Links:
1. Chanel Official Website
2. Vogue Runway Shows
