Vogue has just announced their new theme for the May 2023 Met Gala, “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”. This theme and exhibit are in memory of the iconic designer through his most memorable looks. Karl Lagerfeld was discovered when he submitted a coat design to the French International Wool Secretariat and received first prize. From there, Pierre Balmain hired him and truly gave him the opportunity to create the fashion empire that is still popular today. Lagerfeld first experimented with furs in his work with Italian label, Fendi. In addition to his magnificent designs, Lagerfeld expanded his artistic influence through photography and published photos for Chanel advertisements. The late German designer was based in Paris and then became the creative director for Chanel starting at 1983 and designed collections for the French label and his own name brand.
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The exhibit will highlight his stylistic techniques in creating his timeless pieces.
Lagerfeld’s designs stem from his own personal look and he was always found wearing black sunglasses, a high collared shirt fitted with a tie, and leather gloves accompanied with embellished rings. His designs maintained a sophisticated look and followed the idea that ‘less is more’. Though he never let his creative process be revealed to the public, he stated that he is “powered by creativity and energy” and dislikes routine.
The theme will play on his transitions from taking a 2D “line” on paper and creating it into a 3D garment. Lagerfeld’s sketches were a part of his unique trademark to his work. Every drawing had specific marks that corresponded to a specific fabric or texture. This process was so detailed to his designs that his team knew what every mark meant. In honor of his unique work, 150 of his original looks will be on display at the Met with their corresponding sketches.
Interestingly enough, Vogue chose this theme for the exhibit even though Lagerfeld himself said that fashion is not meant for display and should just be worn on the female or male body. Additionally, Lagerfeld hated looking back into his past. He was an avid believer in taking inspiration from the present and future and avoided venturing into the past to compile designs.
Despite this, I am interested to see his 150 looks on display in May and am curious as to what the Gala’s attendees will be wearing.
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