Karl Lagerfeld

Karl Lagerfeld Today: The Inspiration Behind Becoming Karl Lagerfeld

Renowned actor Daniel Brühl brings Karl Lagerfeld to life in Becoming Karl Lagerfeld, a six-episode miniseries that premiered on Hulu on Friday, June 7. The series chronicles the legendary designer’s ascent in the fashion world, delving into his personal life and intense rivalry with Yves Saint Laurent.

Brühl, 45, recalls a singular, unforgettable encounter with Lagerfeld at a photo shoot that influenced his portrayal. “It was a very chilling moment when, for one second, he lowered his shades to check the photo and looked at me,” Brühl said during a screening event in London. “Those two seconds revealed shy, soft, deep, yet sharp eyes—it was all at once. I will never forget that moment. Even if it could go terribly wrong, I felt an undeniable urge to play Karl Lagerfeld.”

Who Was Karl Lagerfeld?

Karl Lagerfeld, one of the world’s most celebrated fashion designers, was born in Hamburg, Germany, on September 10, 1933, though he never confirmed his exact birthdate. Lagerfeld was a visionary, constantly reinventing himself and his designs, earning accolades as the “unparalleled interpreter of the mood of the moment,” according to Vogue. He passed away on February 19, 2019, in Paris, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion industry.

Early Life

Born Karl Otto Lagerfeldt, the future icon grew up in a privileged household. His father, Christian, amassed wealth by introducing condensed milk to Germany, while his mother, Elizabeth, was an accomplished violinist who encouraged intellectual discussions at the dinner table.

In the 1930s, with Adolf Hitler’s rise to power, the family relocated to rural northern Germany, isolating themselves from the political turmoil. Even as a child, Lagerfeld displayed a keen interest in fashion, cutting out images from magazines and critiquing the attire of his schoolmates. It wasn’t until his teenage years, back in Hamburg, that he fully immersed himself in the world of haute couture.

Career Beginnings

At just 14 years old, Lagerfeld boldly moved to Paris to pursue a career in fashion, a decision supported by his parents. Two years later, he entered a design competition with sketches and fabric samples, winning first place in the coat category. There, he met fellow winner Yves Saint Laurent, sparking both a friendship and a future rivalry.

Lagerfeld began his career under Pierre Balmain as a junior assistant and later an apprentice, dedicating three years to the demanding role. After serving as creative director at another fashion house, he struck out on his own in 1961.

He quickly made a name for himself, designing collections for Chloé and Fendi, where he oversaw the fur line. Lagerfeld’s reputation for blending innovation with historical inspiration set him apart. He often found vintage pieces in flea markets, deconstructing and reimagining them to create fresh, groundbreaking designs.

Later Years

By the 1980s, Karl Lagerfeld had cemented his status as a luminary in the fashion world. A favorite of the press, he captivated audiences with his evolving style and vibrant social life, often seen in the company of other cultural icons such as his close friend Andy Warhol.

Throughout his career, Lagerfeld gained a reputation as a versatile and prolific designer, often described as a “hired gun” for his ability to revive and transform fashion houses. At Chanel, his arrival in the early 1980s marked a turning point for the brand, which had been struggling to maintain relevance. Lagerfeld reinvigorated Chanel with a modernized ready-to-wear line, bringing the brand back to life in a way few thought possible.

In 1984, Lagerfeld launched his own eponymous label, which he described as embodying “intellectual sexiness.” Known for its impeccable tailoring and bold designs, the label featured standout pieces such as brightly colored cardigan jackets. After more than two decades of success, Lagerfeld sold the brand to Tommy Hilfiger in 2005.

A true polymath, Lagerfeld extended his creative talents to film, photography, and even product design. In 2011, he collaborated with Swedish company Orrefors on a line of glassware and designed a capsule collection for Macy’s. In 2015, he opened the first Karl Lagerfeld store in Doha, Qatar, further solidifying his global influence.

Death and Legacy

As Lagerfeld aged into his mid-80s, his pace began to slow, sparking concern in early 2019 when he missed the customary final bow at Chanel’s Paris show. Days later, on February 19, 2019, the fashion world mourned the loss of the legendary designer, who passed away in Paris.

Caroline Rush, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council, honored Lagerfeld’s profound impact, stating, “His unrivaled contribution to the fashion industry changed the way women dress and perceive fashion. He inspired generations of young designers and will continue to do so.”

Lagerfeld’s extraordinary life and career were celebrated in the 2024 miniseries Becoming Karl Lagerfeld, with actor Daniel Brühl portraying the designer.

Lagerfeld’s Cat, Choupette

In 2011, Lagerfeld adopted Choupette, a white Birman cat, from French model Baptiste Giabiconi. The name, meaning “sweetie” in French, referenced a beloved group of models Lagerfeld enjoyed working with. Choupette became Lagerfeld’s constant companion, often dining with him and serving as a muse. Reflecting on their bond, Lagerfeld remarked, “There is something unforgettable about her, the way she moves, the way she plays. She’s an inspiration for elegance. For attitude.”

Choupette’s fame extended far beyond their private life. With over a quarter million Instagram followers, she has become a celebrity in her own right, earning millions of euros through endorsements and modeling gigs. In 2023, she was invited to the Met Gala, which honored Lagerfeld’s legacy, though she did not attend. Several attendees paid tribute to her, with actor Jared Leto notably donning a full-size cat costume in her likeness.