Karl Lagerfeld dead at 85 – celebrities pay tribute to Chanel's legendary designer

Francesca Specter
·Yahoo Style UK deputy editor
Karl Lagerfeld has passed away at the age of 85. [Photo: Getty]
Karl Lagerfeld has passed away at the age of 85. [Photo: Getty]

Karl Lagerfeld has died at the age of 85.

The Chanel artistic director died in the American Hospital of Paris this morning after being rushed to hospital on Monday night, according to French media reports.

No cause of death has been confirmed, but it’s thought Lagerfeld had been suffering from ill health for a number of weeks.

Concerns about the German-born designer’s condition arose on 22 January 2019, when he missed two of Chanel’s haute couture shows in Paris.

At the time, Chanel issued a statement explaining that the designer was “tired.”

Celebrities and fellow designers are paying tribute to the fashion giant, including both David and Victoria Beckham, Elton John, Penelope Cruz, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kim Kardashian, Cindy Crawford, Alexa Chung and fellow designers Donatella Versace and Stella McCartney.

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What a talent. What an appetite for life. Wonderful and lethal company. Never a dull moment. Love, Elton xx @karllagerfeld #RIP

A post shared by Elton John (@eltonjohn) on Feb 19, 2019 at 5:22am PST

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So incredibly sad to hear this. Karl was a genius and always so kind and generous to me both personally and professionally. RIP 💔x vb

A post shared by Victoria Beckham (@victoriabeckham) on Feb 19, 2019 at 4:04am PST

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You made me feel like a princess. I never quite understood what you saw in me but I am forever grateful for the support that you and Chanel have given me over the last 15 years. Rest In Peace Karl, you were a true genius and will be missed, so much.

A post shared by LILY ALLEN (@lilyallen) on Feb 19, 2019 at 4:04am PST

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Dear Karl, it has been an enormous pleasure. I’m honoured to have known you. ❤️

A post shared by Sam McKnight Personal (@sammcknight1) on Feb 19, 2019 at 3:39am PST

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Karl…..I cannot tell you how much you meant to me and how much I will miss you ♥️ I will never forget your kindness towards me, your laughs, your imagination ♥️ I came to France see you this week and introduce you to my daughter…I’m heartbroken I was too late ♥️ Rest In Peace, I adore you ♥️

A post shared by Diane Kruger (@dianekruger) on Feb 19, 2019 at 3:28am PST

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Karl your genius touched the lives of so many, especially Gianni and I. We will never forget your incredible talent and endless inspiration. We were always learning from you.

A post shared by Donatella Versace (@donatella_versace) on Feb 19, 2019 at 3:51am PST

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Rest in peace, Karl. I remember being so scared to interview you and yet you were in fact incredibly witty and generous. Thank you for inviting me to some of the most glamorous experiences of my life, it was an honour to know you. Oh yeah and thanks for the dry shampoo tip, will always think of you as I powder my wig. ❤️

A post shared by Alexa Chung (@alexachung) on Feb 19, 2019 at 3:59am PST

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I can’t deal with this. My heart is exploding. We knew this day would come but I am not ready for it. You were a quiet force of love and support for so many people, me included. So grateful for everything you have done for me. RIP king @karllagerfeld 💔💔💔

A post shared by Natalia Vodianova (@natasupernova) on Feb 19, 2019 at 4:25am PST

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”It saddens me to hear that Karl has passed away, he will be greatly missed. He remains an icon and his contribution to fashion cannot be underestimated. I fondly remember the first meetings we had when discussing the collaboration H&M did with him in 2004: the discussions about which items should be in the collection, the fitting sessions and when he invited the H&M-team to a private lunch in his town house on Rive Gauche.” Margareta van den Bosch Creative Advisor

A post shared by H&M (@hm) on Feb 19, 2019 at 4:27am PST

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Very sad to hear of Karl Lagerfeld’s death. Hard to imagine the fashion world without him @Chanel

A post shared by Alexandra Shulman (@alexandrashulman) on Feb 19, 2019 at 4:28am PST

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this image alone was enough to make my generation dream…

A post shared by @ virgilabloh on Feb 19, 2019 at 4:40am PST

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💔 Karl… Great love of my life. @karllagerfeld @chanelofficial 💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔

A post shared by Linda Evangelista (@lindaevangelista) on Feb 19, 2019 at 4:39am PST

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“Evolution is the secret for the next step” – rest in peace, Karl Lagerfeld ❤

A post shared by David Beckham (@davidbeckham) on Feb 19, 2019 at 4:42am PST

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This is a truly sad day. To say I knew this gentle man that changed how we all looked at the world, is an honour. My heart goes out to his loved ones and to all that felt his delicate and spectacular touch on an industry that is so crowded with characters. He held his place high above all and his sharp wit and mind blew us all away. A true icon… One that will be missed for many, many years to come and will always be responsible for so much creative genius. Thank you Karl for all the beauty and for seeing the world through those iconic glasses that were truly rose-tinted with a vision that was like no other. You will be very missed… And always loved x

A post shared by Stella McCartney (@stellamccartney) on Feb 19, 2019 at 4:45am PST

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My heart is broken. Thank you for everything x

A post shared by Lindsay Lohan (@lindsaylohan) on Feb 19, 2019 at 4:59am PST

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Nothing feels right today..at a loss for words and so heartbroken by the loss of Karl. His humor, wit , love and passion for fashion will live on forever. Thank you for the inspiration that you gave to this world and for all of the hearts that you touched in the process. Every time I saw you it felt like the first time & I will miss your hugs so much. Sending my love to the Lagerfeld family and to all closest to him. I am so sorry. We all love you so much .💔

A post shared by 🦋 (@bellahadid) on Feb 19, 2019 at 5:02am PST

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Cher Karl Cher maître Votre Présence si vibrante, votre profonde gentillesse, l’intérêt et la curiosité que vous aviez pour les gens et le monde m’ont profondément touchée. Ce que vous laissez est Vivant, Lumineux, Eclatant. Le mot Génie vous habillait à la perfection. Merci pour la beauté, l’humour, la poésie, l’authenticité, l’excellence, la passion et l’amour. Merci d’avoir tant donné à la France. Et à l’Art. Je vous souhaite un merveilleux voyage. Avec tout mon amour. ♥️♥️♥️ Marion Dear Karl Dear maestro Your Being was so vibrante, your profound kindness, your curiosity of the world and humanity touched me so deeply. What you have left is Alive, Luminous and Bright. The world Genius suits you perfectly. Thank you for the beauty, the humor, the poetry, the authenticity, the excellence, the passion and the love. Thank you for giving so much to France. And to Art. I wish you a wonderful journey. With all my love.♥️♥️♥️ Marion

A post shared by @ marioncotillard on Feb 19, 2019 at 5:05am PST

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After my first campaign you were asked on French television what you thought of me and you said you would have to meet me to truly know. I sent the interview to my French girl friend to translate and was elated you knew of my existence. Years later during fashion week in Paris you and your family walked into the restaurant my team and i were in and sat at the table next to us. All i could do was stare as this legend was sitting an arm stretch away. I got up and walked passed your table only to go to the bathroom and check my hair before strutting to your table and introducing myself. You told me you knew who i was and that the grace i walked with reminded you of a young Naomi Campbell. Wow.. those words will ring in my head forever. I’m happy i got to know what you thought of me. You’re greatly missed. Sending my love to the Lagerfeld family, you’re in my prayers 🙏🏽💔

A post shared by ♔Winnie Harlow♔ (@winnieharlow) on Feb 19, 2019 at 5:09am PST

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The world is a much more beautiful place, because of all the Beauty you brought to it. 🖤🖤 I never got the opportunity to meet Karl Lagerfeld, but was always a fan, admired his work, and years in the Fashion Industry! Watching André Leon Talley’s Documentary (The Gospel According to André) I loved their interaction when speaking about Fashion! It made me want to be in that time with them, just hanging, soaking up all their brilliance and wisdom. It was Just SO ICONIC!! And KARL LAGERFELD IS AN ICON!! Thank you for all you’ve given! 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤💔🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤 🖤FOREVER KARL LAGERFELD🖤

A post shared by Kelly Rowland (@kellyrowland) on Feb 19, 2019 at 5:15am PST

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💔

A post shared by Lara Stone (@lara_stone) on Feb 19, 2019 at 5:21am PST

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Karl was my magic dust, he transformed me from a shy German girl into a supermodel. He taught me about fashion, style and survival in the fashion business. What Warhol was to art, he was to fashion; he is irreplaceable. He is the only person who could make black and white colourful! I will be eternally grateful to him.

A post shared by Claudia Schiffer (@claudiaschiffer) on Feb 19, 2019 at 5:57am PST

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Karl, your creativity and imprint on fashion will live forever. God bless you. Rest in peace 🙏🏾 #legend #fashionicon

A post shared by Lewis Hamilton (@lewishamilton) on Feb 19, 2019 at 5:40am PST

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Dearest @karllagerfeld there will never be another like you. Thank you for your incredible contribution to fashion and wit. 💔

A post shared by Gwyneth Paltrow (@gwynethpaltrow) on Feb 19, 2019 at 6:51am PST

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There will always be a place in my heart for you, my dear Karl. I will never forget your kindness, your generosity and how much we have laughed together..I will truly treasure those moments forever. You have inspired us in so many ways! Thank you, maestro. I love you. ❤️ Mi querido Karl, nunca olvidare el cariño y respeto con el que siempre me has tratado, tu generosidad, tu mente brillante y todo lo que me has hecho reír. Todos los momentos vividos contigo desde el día que te conocí, son un tesoro que se queda guardado en mi corazón para siempre. Gracias por inspirarnos con tu arte durante todos estos años. Gracias maestro. Te quiero mucho.

A post shared by Penélope Cruz (@penelopecruzoficial) on Feb 19, 2019 at 6:53am PST

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@karllagerfeld … I loved working with you. Unique, masterful, funny and generous. RIP 💖

A post shared by Kylie Minogue (@kylieminogue) on Feb 19, 2019 at 6:10am PST

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@karllagerfeld your incredible talent and joie de vivre will be missed by all of us who love fashion and you 💔

A post shared by Cindy Crawford (@cindycrawford) on Feb 19, 2019 at 7:47am PST

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Very sad to hear about the passing of my friend, the legendary #KarlLagerfeld A true creative visionary of our time, who will be greatly missed! May he rest in peace 🖤 Muy triste al enterarme del fallecimiento de mi amigo #KarlLargerfeld lo extrañaremos

A post shared by Salma Hayek Pinault (@salmahayek) on Feb 19, 2019 at 7:21am PST

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My husband took this picture in Cannes because Karl hated selfies. What a privilege it was to know this man even a little bit during his extraordinary lifetime. His talent was remarkable, his insight acute, and his work ethic second to none. I will miss him so much. The second photo is from the last time I saw him in NYC after his show. He insisted I sit on his lap. I ❤️you, Karl. @chanelofficial @karllagerfeld #karllagerfeld

A post shared by Julianne Moore (@juliannemoore) on Feb 19, 2019 at 7:48am PST

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Karl … thank you for taking @willowsmith under your wing and teaching her so much. Thank you for the advice you would give me on my hairstyles and how it was much nicer less extreme😆 You were so kind and that’s a rare find in your industry. I will miss you. You are not only a legend but a deeply gentle, caring soul. Rest in love Karl❤️

A post shared by Jada Pinkett Smith (@jadapinkettsmith) on Feb 19, 2019 at 7:40am PST

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We lost a true legend!!!! You were such an inspiration to the world! You shot my first fashion shoot and I was so nervous to work with such an icon! The world is so much chicer because you existed! I am beyond honored to have met you and had the opportunity to work with you. You are so loved and will be so missed 💔

A post shared by Kim Kardashian West (@kimkardashian) on Feb 19, 2019 at 7:11am PST

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You brought so much beauty, style and grace to this world. Karl, you will forever be a true legend, an icon, an inspiration. It was such a thrill and a pleasure to have met you, to have worked with you, and to have experienced the amazing times when you would photograph my girls for your beautiful campaigns. There will never be another like you, my dear friend, and you will be truly missed. 💔#KarlLagerfeld @karllagerfeld

A post shared by Kris Jenner (@krisjenner) on Feb 19, 2019 at 5:46am PST

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🖤 @karllagerfeld

A post shared by Eva Longoria Baston (@evalongoria) on Feb 19, 2019 at 7:49am PST

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Karl Lagerfeld 🖤 You will never be forgotten … & forever, you’ll be missed. In recent years, We have and will continue to lose so many legends …. time goes by and inevitably we lose the ones who paved the path before us to thrive . This changes everything …. we have to take responsibility , step in and step up….. we have to use more compassionate resources, we have to sustain, we have to get creative – make something new while honoring the hard work done for us ….. we have to do what pioneers like Karl would want us to do – make big impacts and change the world thru fashion! #NoFur #Sustainability #LoveOnly #NoShame #JustLove

A post shared by Miley Cyrus (@mileycyrus) on Feb 19, 2019 at 9:06am PST

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💔❤️💔❤️💔

A post shared by Cara Delevingne (@caradelevingne) on Feb 19, 2019 at 3:44pm PST

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Oh Mr. Lagerfeld, In your company- Watching you work- Sitting beside you- Sharing a meal- Being shot by you- Being fitted- Watching a show- Often in awe. Constantly dazzled Frequently shy Always a privilege. There is no replacement. Just countless memories of your extraordinary and tireless work. They broke the mold. Aren't we all lucky to have known and admired you so. RIP X, SJ

A post shared by SJP (@sarahjessicaparker) on Feb 19, 2019 at 10:11am PST

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The Godfather. #🖤

A post shared by badgalriri (@badgalriri) on Feb 19, 2019 at 11:24am PST

The House of Chanel has responded to Lagerfeld’s death with the following statement:

“An extraordinary creative individual, Karl Lagerfeld reinvented the brand’s codes created by Gabrielle Chanel: the Chanel jacket and suit, the little black dress, the precious tweeds, the two-tone shoes, the quilted handbags, the pearls and costume jewellery.

“Regarding Gabrielle Chanel, he said, “My job is not to do what she did, but what she would have done. The good thing about Chanel is it is an idea you can adapt to many things.”

Alain Wertheimer, CEO of Chanel, said: “Thanks to his creative genius, generosity and exceptional intuition, Karl Lagerfeld was ahead of his time, which widely contributed to the House of CHANEL’s success throughout the world. Today, not only have I lost a friend, but we have all lost an extraordinary creative mind to whom I gave carte blanche in the early 1980s to reinvent the brand.”

Born in Hamburg, Germany in 1933, Lagerfeld joined Chanel in 1983, and is credited with breathing new life into the French label with his larger-than-life runway spectacles and repurposing of the interlocking CC logo.

His illustrious career also includes stints at Jean Patou, Chloé and Hogan, and a design relationship with Fendi that has spanned more than five decades.

He collaborated with H&M in 2004 and also oversaw his own Karl Lagerfeld line.

Lagerfeld’s image — he was faithful to his gray ponytail, sunglasses and black suits with cravats and fingerless gloves, and famously drank Diet Coke out of crystal goblets — is as well-known as his designs.

He was also famously outspoken, and caused controversy for making cutting remarks about the appearance of several high-profile women.

As well as working with Chanel, Lagerfeld collaborated with Italian fashion house Fendi from 1965, on furs, clothing and accessories, as well as working on his own eponymous label.

Additional reporting by Erin Donnelly.

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