160 | theceomagazine.comThe Last Word
Karl Lagerfeld entered the fashion world at age 17, working as Pierre Balmain’s assistant. Having since made a name for
himself at Jean Patou, Chloé, Fendi and, of course, Chanel, he is globally recognised for his iconic fashion designs, slick
advertising campaigns, and even slicker platinum ponytail. After creating a sculpture of his muse Baptiste Giabiconi entirely
out of chocolate, he hit one of luxury’s highest notes in 2015 by designing a silver sable coat priced at €1 million.
He is currently the Creative Director of Chanel, one of the biggest brands in the global luxury business. The fashion house
recently released its annual results for the first time in its 108-year history to reveal a US$1.79 billion profit last year on
revenue of US$9.62 billion. Many credit Lagerfeld with its incredible success.“Luxury is the income tax of vanity.
But it is so pleasant.”
KARL LAGERFELD
Karl Lagerfeld pictured with Vogue
Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour in 1990