Karl Lagerfeld: Biography, Facts and Career
Who is Karl Lagerfeld? An evergreen, sourced profile: biography, key facts and career.

Karl Otto Lagerfeld, also called Kaiser Karl, (German: [kaʁl ˈʔɔtoː ˈlaːɡɐˌfɛlt] ; 10 September 1933 – 19 February 2019) was a German fashion designer, photographer, and creative director. Lagerfeld began his career in fashion in the 1950s, working for several top fashion houses including Balmain, Patou, and Chloé before joining Chanel in 1983. As the creative director of Chanel from 1983 until his death, he oversaw every aspect of the fashion house's creative output, from designing collections to photographing advertising campaigns and arranging store displays. He was instrumental in revitalizing the Chanel brand, helping it regain its position as one of the top fashion houses in the world. He was also creative director of the Italian fur and leather goods fashion house Fendi, as well as his own eponymous fashion label. Throughout his career, he collaborated on numerous fashion, design, and art-related projects, and his photography was exhibited in galleries and collected in published volumes. Lagerfeld was recognised for his signature white hair, black sunglasses, fingerless gloves, and high-starched detachable collars.
Quick facts about Karl Lagerfeld
- Full name: Karl Lagerfeld
- Born: 1933-09-10
- Nationality: Germany
- Known as: Fashion figure
- Wikidata ID: Q76716
Profile compiled from public Wikipedia and Wikidata data. Details can change over time.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Karl Lagerfeld?
Karl Otto Lagerfeld, also called Kaiser Karl, (German: [kaʁl ˈʔɔtoː ˈlaːɡɐˌfɛlt] ; 10 September 1933 – 19 February 2019) was a German fashion designer, photographer, and creative director. Lagerfeld began his career in fashion in the 1950s, working for several top fashion houses including Balmain, Patou, and Chloé before joining Chanel in 1983.
What nationality is Karl Lagerfeld?
Karl Lagerfeld is Germany.
When was Karl Lagerfeld born?
Karl Lagerfeld was born on 1933-09-10.



