“In a meat-eating world, where we wear leather shoes or even clothes, the debate about fur is childish.”
PHOTO: FENDI
– Karl Lagerfeld entered into cooperation with the Fendi sisters only on the condition that he would be allowed to revamp the cozy legacy that had brought the family brand worldwide renown. “I don’t want to sound pretentious, but during the seventies and eighties I innovated many fur designs, they were revolutionary and unmatched,” said Lagerfeld in a recent interview with Women’s Wear Daily. Those who have seen a Fendi fur up close, have touched one or even tried one on would have to agree with the designer. Today Fendi leads the haute fourrure market. In its ateliers the word impossible simply does not apply. Under Lagerfeld’s guidance, Fendi has introduced extremely lightweight furs often combined with luxurious materials such as chiffon and organza. There are also furs inspired by artworks, furs styled in the shape of monsters or even Karlitos – a rendition of Lagerfeld himself in mink. Nothing, however, can match the Fendi coats made of sable, Arctic fox and wolf fur, featuring precious embroidery, layers of feathers or painstakingly stitched fur patchwork. Furs that catch the silver lights of the catwalk like the rays of the moon. The evening in the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées in Paris brought together Lagerfeld’s unique vision and Fendi’s singular craftsmanship. Fendi treated itself to this premiere at the Paris haute couture week to mark its 90th anniversary and half a century of cooperation with Karl Lagerfeld. The designer modestly says, “I hate anniversaries and celebrations, it was simply another job.” However, that is not quite the truth. Preparing these exquisite designs is so demanding that it would be impossible to present a collection such as this on a half-yearly or even yearly basis as Lagerfeld has previously done for Fendi, Chanel and his signature brand. And so this premiere also proved to be a finale of sorts – a unique, unrepeatable, once-in-a-lifetime performance.
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14.9.15 14:19