Tributes Are being paid to Creative Fashion Icon of Chanel & Fendi, Karl Lagerfeld Dead at 85

He died following a period of illness over the last two weeks, Fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld was aged of 85.

Official confirmation of the passing of the German fashion icon, designer, artist and photographer – who worked as head designer and creative director of Chanel as well as Fendi and his own eponymous fashion label – came on social media earlier this evening (February 19)

The post read: “The House of KARL LAGERFELD shares, with deep emotion and sadness, the passing of its creative director, Karl Lagerfeld, on February 19, 2019, in Paris, France. He was one of the most influential and celebrated designers of the 21st century and an iconic, universal symbol of style.

“Driven by a phenomenal sense of creativity, Karl was passionate, powerful and intensely curious. He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy as one of the greatest designers of our time, and there are no words to express how much he will be missed.”

Renowned for his trademark leather gloves, white ponytail, high starched collars and dark enigmatic glassees, he also designed outfits for a number of music and film stars, including Lady Gaga and Rihanna.

Alexa Chung added: “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.”