Karl tips Haider for Chanel job

Maybe hes immortal. As recently as a few months ago, Chanel designer-for-life Karl Lagerfeld refused to acknowledge that someday, his fashion home for the past 38 years will need to appoint a successor.

By ELLE UK and NonePublished: 19 November 2010

<p>Karl Lagerfeld and Haider Ackermann</p>

Unknown

Retirement is not one of the topics with which I deal. Why should I? the 77-year-old asked.

But yesterday, Lagerfeld added his voice to the whispers about Chanels next designer, saying that he wants Haider Ackermann to take the reins after his departure.

I have a contract for life so it all depends on who I would like to hand it to. At the moment Id say Haider Ackermann, he told Numero, as quoted by WWD.

Belgian designer Ackermann was, understandably, flabbergasted. He responded, What can one possibly say to such a phrase?! Such a compliment! Honoured I feel, how can one not be?! In all honesty tremendously, immensely touched especially coming from Monsieur Lagerfeld.

Lanvin designer Alber Elbaz is rumoured to have his eye on the job, and we're not sure the choice is really Lagerfeld's to make. Either way, this succession battle -- shall we call it a war of the camellias? looks to be heating up.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below