As anyone with a modicum of fashion knowledge will attest, Karl Lagerfeld has looked the same for nearly two decades, characterised by his skinny Dior Homme suits, leather gloves, white ponytail and dark sunglasses. His distinctive, well-considered look has made him one of the most recognisable fashion figures in the world.
But the unthinkable has happened - Lagerfeld had grown a beard, marking the first time that he has shaken up his image in nearly 20 years - indeed, this is big news for the fashion world. The Chanel veteran has always been clean shaven; designer stubble never seemed to be in keeping with his austere uniform. His new beard takes a wispy, snow white and surprisingly (intentionally, we're sure) scruffy form.
He debuted the look at the Dior menswear show this weekend where he was seen on the front row with Robert Pattinson, Bernard Arnault, Bella Hadid and Maria Grazia Chiuri. Lagerfeld remained true to his other sartorial trademarks in his black suit and tie, white shirt and sunglasses. After all, a full transformation might have rocked the fashion world a little too much.
So far, Twitter reactions have been mixed.
