

Are you lacking the inspiration to design your next award-winning dress? Don’t worry; I got you covered, this list of Karl Lagerfeld quotes will have bubbling with inspiration. With some of the most clever and quirky fashion quotes of all time, Karl Lagerfeld doesn’t disappoint. So let’s take a look back at some of his words of wisdom:
Karl Lagerfeld Bio
Did you know Lagerfeld’s last name is actually spelled Lagerfeldt? When he was a teen designer, he removed the “t” to make his name sound more commercialized. He was only 14 at the time when he decided to move from Germany to Paris to study fashion.
It was in the city of love that he became known for his innovative and creative designs. In his later years, his success in renovating a brand back to life made him loved by the fashion community.
Karl Lagerfeld Quotes
These iconic fashion quotes have inspired, uplifted, and influenced a generation. With brilliant genius, Karl Lagerfeld put into words the complexity of fashion.
Fashion is More than Meets the Eye
- “Fashion is a language that creates itself in clothes to interpret reality.”
As one of Karl’s most iconic quotes, Karl discusses how fashion translates into real life. Each trend that was popular through the decades had meaning in fashion. Whether it was due to the changing times, the weather, or personal opinion, it reflected upon everyday life.
As designers or fashion lovers, fashion translates into what you want it to be. Whether that be a silk glove to hold a cup of coffee or a sturdy shoe to comfort your feet.
What Fashion Represents
- “I am a fashion person, and fashion is not only about clothes⎯it’s about all kinds of change.”
In this quote, Karl analyzes the fashion industry, claiming it not only provides clothes but supplies a transformation. Whether it be from a personal change, a cultural evolution, or a shift in thinking, fashion thrives on creative change.
How to Dress
- “Don’t dress to kill, dress to survive.”
In this one of a kind quote, Karl declares the importance of dressing appropriately. Before designing that fashion-forward t-shirt, make sure it supplies a person’s needs, such as warmth, breathability, or comfort. No one will want to buy a shirt that doesn’t suit their needs, even if it’s trendy.
Instead, as Karl implies, design for life. Besides, designing for the occurrences of everyday life can broaden your fashion sense.
The Importance of a Black Dress
- “One is never over-dressed or underdressed with a little black dress.”
In this inspiring quote, Karl states the significance of the little black dress. By designing one, you’ll have the ultimate party dress.
While it’s a safe choice, you can dress it up or down depending on the situation. You can even complement it with a jean jacket or layer it with necklaces for your outfit to have the full effect. Like Karl suggests, one can never go wrong when choosing the little black dress; its simplistic style makes it the perfect choice for any occasion.
Sweatpants Have a Meaning
- “Sweatpants are a sign of defeat. You lost control of your life, so you bought some sweatpants.”
As one of Karl’s more controversial quotes, he insists sweatpants are an indication of failure. A mere attempt to save face throughout the chaos of life. His opinions on sweatpants defined it as a lazy fashion statement.
Final Thoughts
All in all, Karl Lagerfeld’s fashion quotes have inspired, challenged, and motivated the fashion industry. Whether it was his opinions on how to dress, his thoughts on sweatpants, or his beliefs on fashion, Karl Lagerfeld remains an icon in the fashion industry.
Karl Lagerfeld quotes may be quirky to hear; however, their significance is staggering. If you’re ever in need of some fashion inspiration, visit our fashion blog.