Karl Lagerfeld was widely recognized for his work as a fashion designer, specifically as the creative director of Chanel and Fendi. Due to pancreatic cancer, he passed away on February 19 at the age of 85.

 Lagerfeld started designing in 1955 after he won a coat design competition in Paris, where he became friends with Yves Saint Laurent. He was hired by Pierre Balmain before earning the title of artistic director for Jean Patou. In 1967, Lagerfeld was hired by Fendi, where he modernized their fur line and created ten couture collections over the course of a five-year tenure. Afterward, he did freelance designs for Chloé, Charles Jourdan, Krizia, and Valentino. A visionary, Lagerfeld quickly became known for his innovative and unique design ideas. During the 1980s, he was hired by Chanel, causing him to receive international recognition for his work. In 1999, he opened a bookshop entitled 7L in Paris, as he often spoke of his love for reading. Fourteen years later, he directed a short film called Once Upon a Time… starring Keira Knightley as Coco Chanel. Lagerfeld additionally worked on interior design and released an art collection of sculptures thereafter. Although several instances arose in which he made controversial statements, he apologized for all of his faults and was ultimately better known for his contributions to the fashion industry. During his eventful career, he designed a variety of diverse collections and transformed the world of fashion.

 Karl Lagerfeld will be remembered as the legend who revolutionized luxury fashion with his work for a multitude of designer brands. As those he worked with, including Gigi and Bella Hadid, Cara Delevingne, Hailee Steinfeld, and Kendall Jenner, mourn a beloved mentor, the entire fashion community looks back on the influential legacy Lagerfeld left behind.