I Demand to Know Who Did This.
Karl Lagerfeld Exhibit at Met features ZERO handbags.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibition, "Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty," promised a tribute to the iconic fashion designer and showcasing his remarkable contributions to the industry, an immersive experience celebrating Lagerfeld's unique style, visionary approach, and enduring influence. However, one notable absence left me disappointed and questioning the exhibition's completeness: the exhibit featured exactly zero of Lagerfeld’s handbags. ZERO.
As a devoted admirer of Karl Lagerfeld's work at Chanel and Fendi, I eagerly anticipated seeing a comprehensive collection of his notable contributions, particularly his most coveted bags. While the exhibit showcased an array of exquisite clothing, his bag designs were completely skipped. It was like someone forgot about them, save for a lone Fendi Karlitto bag charm.
How can an exhibition devoted to Karl Lagerfeld neglect his iconic handbags? This is the man who invented the Classic Flap. Chanel’s Classic Flap, which now boasts a five-figure price tag, is arguably one of the most recognizable luxury bags on the planet.
While I refuse to believe that the absence of handbags was an oversight, it is a perplexing omission. It is worth noting that the exhibit also excluded accessories such as shoes, jewelry, and watches. I’m sure the Met is trying to make a point, I just can’t for the life of me figure out what that point is.
Lagerfeld's unparalleled creativity and attention to detail extended beyond clothing, encompassing a complete aesthetic that involved every aspect of fashion. By omitting these crucial elements, the exhibition fails to tell the complete story of Lagerfeld's extraordinary body of work.
For me, the absence of handbags and accessories was a significant disappointment, causing the exhibit to fall flat. It is in the realm of accessories that Lagerfeld's genius truly shines, as he effortlessly transformed functional items into works of art. These handbags not only exemplify his iconic designs but also serve as timeless symbols of his legacy. It is regrettable that the exhibition failed to honor this vital aspect of Lagerfeld's contribution to the fashion world.
In honor of the late Karl Lagerfeld and to pay homage to his remarkable handbag creations, I have compiled a list of my top 5 favorite bags he designed at Chanel and at Fendi in partnership with Silvia Fendi. It is unfortunate that none of these masterpieces could be found at the Metropolitan Museum of Art during the exhibition:
Chanel Classic Flap Bag, aka the 11.12. I have loved this bag since I was a kid, and it is one of my most valuable assets.
Chanel Boy Bag. The millennial little sister of the flap bag family is an example of Karl’s ability to remix and remaster a classic style.
Chanel Ankle Bracelet Bag. Though not officially stated, this bag was inspired by the SCRAM ankle bracelet worn by Karl’s bestie Lindsay Lohan in the early aughts.
Chanel Novelty Minaudière. These bags are pure fun. My personal favorite is the Robot Minaudière from the Spring 2017 Collection.
Fendi Baguette Bag. This might be the perfect bag. More here.
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