KARL – attitude in black and white
“Fashion czar” Karl Lagerfeld knew the importance of his silhouette, much like Warhol. His personal style and many of his designs were characterized by a strong, graphic black and white look. This reduction did justice to his way of thinking, which was based on radical rationality, analysis and dualism. Uncompromising discipline, an extremely direct, often caustic manner and an unyielding attitude towards aesthetics were reflected in his carefully constructed uniform, which expressed professionalism and distance. His posture was often stiff and distant, underlining his role as an unapproachable icon and “fashion czar”.
The defining elements of his style can be found in the design of our light object KARL: the black jacket, the high shirt collar, the white powdered ponytail tied with a bow, as worn by the military in the 18th century, and the dark sunglasses. Even his typical, controlled facial expression with the distinctive lower lip can be found in caricatured form in Glasvogel KARL.
The handwriting behind the big houses
KL was a formative figure in international fashion for decades. As the creative head of Chanel, Fendi and Chloé, he knew how to analyze the DNA of major houses and reinterpret it for the present.
He was a designer, photographer and costume designer – and at the same time his own production. A “chameleon of fashion” who was constantly changing and yet always remained clearly recognizable. His work was characterized by precision, analysis and a consistent play with contrasts.
Stylish appearance, powerful effect
It is due to Karl Lagerfeld’s personality that we have done things differently with KARL than with the rest of the ODD BIRDS. KARL deviates from the typical body shape and is slimmer, taller and deliberately stiffer and more severe in his posture.
KARL also goes its own way in terms of color design: instead of the strong tones characteristic of Borowski, this object relies on a warm, restrained glow. The graphic design in black and white tones thus comes more to the fore and brings a calm, clear effect to the room.
As soon as you recognize the fashion czar, you can’t help but smile. Both inside and out, KARL has a restrained yet unique look: reduced to the essentials, with precisely placed details.
