Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty
It has been four years since Karl Lagerfield’s passing, but the world continues to commemorate him and his work in many ways. As one of the most prolific and celebrated fashion designers in the world, Lagerfeld has left an impressionable mark even after his death. The Met has chosen “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty '' to be the Spring 2023 Costume Institute Exhibition in the museum to honor Karl and was also the Met Gala Theme this year. The Met Gala featured celebrities wearing his very own collections and others wearing designs greatly inspired by his work.
The beautiful exhibition consists of a capsule collection of Lagerfield’s work; capturing his genius and talent throughout his years in the fashion industry. As one walks into the exhibition, one is met with a stunning display of mannequins showcasing his line of work with Balmain, Patou, Chloé, Chanel and his own namesake brand. Mannequins are seen in a variety of dresses, suits, and coats- all a staple of Lagerfield’s designs. Sketches of his past work were also featured as the exhibition spanned showing a variety of Lagerfield’s past sketches notably for Chanel and Chloe. The Costume Institute’s Wendy Yu Curator in Charge, Andrew Bolton says “He would sketch everything. He would always say that he could draw before he could talk or walk. In many ways it was his primary form of communication, whether he was delivering them by fax machine or iPhone.” The exhibition did a stunning job of incorporating both his sketches and his real life garments to truly capture the essence of Lagerfield’s work.
One notable aspect of the exhibition was the description of lines used in Lagerfeld's designs. The Feminine/Masculine Line was most prominent of his designs featuring the feminine art of draping with Lagerfield’s use of chiffon, tulle, and lace to build the structure and layers of his garments evident in the presentation of his designs for Chanel. In contrast, the construction of the masculine line was tailoring his garments to have broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and rounded hips. His work for Chanel heavily reflected the Feminine/Masculine Line and was one of the most notable showcases in the exhibition. Lastly, one could not forget Lagerfield’s iconic self presentation with his staple slim cut jackets, high neck shirts, and sunglasses; his white and black color palette accurately reflects Lagerfield description of himself as a “black and white person.”
This exhibition is a must see and celebrates one of the world’s most talented designers. Even after his passing, the world continues to preserve his work and celebrate his achievements in beautiful lasting ways.
Images + Article by Alexis Yap, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Isabella Gonzalez, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine
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