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Chanel - Runway - PFW F/W 2013© GettyImages

Karl Lagerfeld’s most memorable quotes

Prepare for the 2023 Met Gala by looking back at unforgettable words from the fashion legend


Andrea Pérez
Deputy Editor Miami
APRIL 27, 2023 3:01 PM EDT

With the highly anticipated 2023 Met Gala approaching, fashionistas around the world are buzzing with excitement over the theme: “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty.” This year’s event will celebrate the life and work of the iconic designer, who left an indelible mark on the fashion industry with his sharp wit, unapologetic opinions, and incredible designs. From his time as the creative director of Chanel to his work with Fendi and his eponymous brand, Lagerfeld’s contributions to fashion will continue to inspire and influence designers for future generations.

We gathered some of the best quotes from Karl Lagerfeld to live by, which also offer insight into his unique perspective on fashion, creativity, and life. Beyond his design work, Lagerfeld’s words were just as impactful. As we prepare to celebrate his legacy at the 2023 Met Gala, these quotes can remind us of his personality and work on the runway.

“I am a fashion person, and fashion is not only about clothes—it’s about all kinds of change.” –Karl Lagerfeld–
“Improvise. Become more creative. Not because you have to, but because you want to. Evolution is the secret for the next step.” –Karl Lagerfeld–
Press Conference in the Palazzo Contarini Polignac: MOBILE ART Chanel Contemporary art Container by Zaha Hadid© GettyImages

“I’m very impeccable and clean before I go to bed. When I was a child, my mother always told me that you could wake up in the middle of the night and be deathly sick, so you always have to be impeccable. I laugh about it now, but I think everyone should go to bed like they have a date at the door.”

–Karl Lagerfeld–

Karl Lagerfeld And DJ Big Ali Party At The VIP Room© GettyImages

“Don’t look to the approval of others for your mental stability”

–Karl Lagerfeld–

Chanel : Runway - Paris Fashion Week Womenswear Spring/Summer 2014© GettyImages

“If you throw money out of the window, throw it out with joy. Don’t say: ‘one shouldn’t do that’—that is bourgeois.”

–Karl Lagerfeld–

2007/8 Chanel Cruise Show Presented By Karl Lagerfeld - Inside© GettyImages

“One is never over-dressed or underdressed with a Little Black Dress.”

–Karl Lagerfeld–

Chanel Cruise Collection Presentation - Show© GettyImages

“Never use the word ‘cheap.’ Today everybody can look chic in inexpensive clothes (the rich buy them too). There is good clothing design on every level today. You can be the chicest thing in the world in a T-shirt and jeans—it’s up to you.”

–Karl Lagerfeld–

Chanel : Runway - Paris Fashion Week Womenswear Spring/Summer 2015© GettyImages

“Don’t sacrifice yourself too much, because if you sacrifice too much there’s nothing else you can give and nobody will care for you.”

–Karl Lagerfeld–

Chanel : Front Row - Paris Fashion Week Womenswear Spring/Summer 2017© GettyImages

“Change is the healthiest way to survive”

–Karl Lagerfeld–