A Chanel loyalist pays her tribute to the late Karl Lagerfeld
- by Prerna Goel
Following the death of one of fashion’s biggest icons, Prerna Goel pens a heartfelt ode to Karl Lagerfeld’s Chanel
The first time I ever came across Chanel was in my college days in the early ’90s. All the glossies I read had images of supermodels like Claudia Schiffer, Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford walking at the maison’s shows. The first time I got to own something from Chanel (not literally) was also around this time. I would borrow my mum’s bag! A simple black leather cross stitch classic flap bag that I was only allowed to use for special occasions. Today I don’t know how many pieces of I own from the brand, but I’m definitely fortunate enough to own some timeless ones that I can keep bringing out time and again.
My most prized possession is a vintage Chanel belt. I got my hands on it while roaming the streets in Murray. I came across a shop filled with vintage accessories where I found the heavy gold chain charm belt. It was such a good bargain and totally worth it!
I remember it was 2006 when Chanel was coming out with a documentary on Chanel No 5 titled Luxury Unveiled. They chose five women around the world who fit the Chanel outlook. I had the privilege to be one of them. They came from Paris to shoot in Mumbai, and then took me to Paris to meet the other four. I wined, dined, watched the couture show, and finally met the creative genius himself and exchanged a few words.
Monsieur Karl Lagerfeld is an epitome of humbleness and perfection with a wicked sense of humour. What I love most about him is that he was a rare genius, he brought an energetic spirit to fashion. His vision for the Chanel was larger than life.
It is the end of an era… there will never be another Karl Lagerfeld, as no one can match his craft. I’ll always remember him for his profound words: “I’m a fashion person, and fashion is not only about clothes—it’s about all kinds of change…”
Also read:
Vogue India remembers Karl Lagerfeld in a touching tribute
Meet Virginie Viard, the woman who will succeed Karl Lagerfeld at Chanel
