MFW18: Karl Lagerfeld curated by Sebastian Jondeau

TAKING a side-step from his more usual inspirations, Karl Lagerfeld looked closer to home for this AW18 collection, allowing Sebastian Jondeau take the spotlight. Jondeau has long been part of Karl’s loyal team; in the past 20 years, he has been everything from his bodyguard to his personal assistant. Now Jondeau has taken the role of curator and inspiration for this latest collection.

Sebastian Jondeau modelling the latest Karl Lagerfeld collection

Jondeau showing the collection’s versatility

The collection inspired by Jondeau and his lifestyle debut during the Pitti Uomo show in Florence. Using his diverse routine as an initial influence, it is a versatile capsule collection covering casual, formal and sporty attire. Consisting of tuxedos, puffer jackets and turtlenecks, the collection is cohesive due to the classic colour combination of black and white with accent colours.

Prints incorporate Jondaue’s year of birth and initials

The collection has a range of styles, from sportswear to formal wear

Aesthetically, the collection had been divided into four categories: Karl Lagerfeld Space, Karl Rock/Denim, Karl DNA and Karl Ikonic and Signature. With metallic fabrics, enlarged logos and functional accessories, space is a notable influence advantageously used for infusing a fashion-forward and youthful element. Using materials notorious for being associated with rock music, the Karl Rock/Denim brings leather jackets and red and black checked fabrics to the collection.

However, this is juxtaposed by the more formal and tailored styling of the Karl DNA, inspired by Lagerfeld’s most recognisable designs. Finally, the Karl Ikonic and Signature nod to Lagerfeld’s use of branding choices, with his name and famous appearance being incorporated into woven fabrics or printed onto t-shirts.

Accessories from the Karl Lagerfeld curated by Sebastian Jondeau collection

Jondeau modelling the Karl Lagerfeld AW18 collection

As well as Karl Lagerfeld contributing his own visuals, Jondeau’s initials and birth year can be spotted printed onto garments. The collection, modelled by the man himself, is a perfect reflection of Jondeau’s day-to-day life, incorporating his personality, mentality and passions all in one. This is without compromise on addressing the Karl Lagerfeld brand, in keeping with his luxurious and timeless designing style and also allowing the collection to have luxurious but accessible qualities.

by Todd Burns