German-born designer Karl Lagerfeld, notoriously known as Chanel’s iconic reinventor, has changed the fashion game through his exceptional design in couture, ready-to-wear, and of course handbags, even as he remained a polarizing, often controversial figure as he solidified his legacy in the world of haute couture.
The 85-year-old Lagerfeld, who died this week in Paris, got his start with Fendi in 1965, collaborating with Sylvia Fendi on ready-to-wear. Before Fendi, Karl had also worked for Chloe from 1964. However, he didn’t become a household name until he took the helm at Chanel, creative director in 1983, launching his first fall couture collection for the fashion house. A year later he debuted his own brand. In memory of the late designer, we’re here to pay homage to his pioneering moments. Here are the top 5 Chanel handbags under Lagerfeld’s creative vision that changed the bag game forever.
The 11.12 Bag
The 11.12 bag is Lagerfeld’s 1980s version of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s 2.55 bag. Every season Lagerfeld would take classic Chanel bags designed by Gabrielle, modernizing them and putting his own twist on each bag. The 11.12 is essentially the classic Chanel flap bag, but with chevron quilting instead of the diamond print. The bag was rebranded in Spring of 2015.
The Boy Bag
Launched in 2011, the legendary Chanel Boy Bag was Lagerfeld’s tribute to Gabrielle Chanel’s first love, Boy Capel. The Boy Bag has now become a staple for every season, Lagerfeld would debut different sizes and varying designs for each collection.
The Gabrielle bag
The Gabrielle bag is Lagerfeld’s homage to Gabrielle Chanel herself. The design launched during the Chanel ready-to-wear SS17 show and the inspiration behind its silhouette was actually a binocular case. What’s special about the Gabrielle bag is that it was the first unisex bag made by Chanel, modeled by Pharrell Williams in the brand’s ad campaign.
The Perfume Bottle Bag
From the 2013 runway collection, the translucent Chanel perfume bag was definitely an “it”bag, a statement piece that all fashionistas wanted to carry. Lagerfeld modeled this innovative bottle design after Flacon no. 5, the first perfume launched by Coco Chanel.
The Giant Hoop Bag
Last but certainly not least, The giant hoop bag that first debuted on Chanel’s SS13 runway. The bag was actually a reincarnation of the 2.55 bag, just casually settled into a giant black hula hoop. Celebrities were actually spotted wearing this bag – including Kris Jenner. Although this bag was not available to the general public and only showcased as an art piece for the collection, smaller versions of this bag were available for purchase and sold immediately.
