How Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel, and McQueen Turned Hobbies Into Fashion Icons
Fashion icons often find inspiration beyond the runway, shaping their work through personal passions. From rare books and vintage cars to fly-fishing and gardening, these hobbies have left a lasting mark on their designs. Many of these interests also became defining elements of their creative legacies.
Karl Lagerfeld’s love for books went far beyond casual reading. His Paris bookstore, 7L, specialised in photography, architecture, and rare art publications. At home, he owned a private library of over 300,000 volumes, reflecting his deep passion for printed works.
For Coco Chanel, a stay in Scotland with the Duke of Westminster sparked an unexpected hobby. She developed a keen interest in fly-fishing, which later influenced her design vocabulary. The sport’s practical yet elegant attire subtly shaped her approach to fashion. Alexander McQueen’s fascination with nature took a darker turn. Birds and taxidermy frequently appeared in his collections, blending beauty with the macabre. His designs often mirrored this obsession, creating striking and memorable pieces. Ralph Lauren’s twin passions—cars and design—intersected in his 2017 Fall show. The setting replicated his own automotive garage, filled with rare Ferraris, Bugattis, and Bentleys. Beyond fashion, he has spent decades collecting these exceptional vehicles. Gardening has long been a creative force for designers. Christian Dior found inspiration in his flower-filled gardens, weaving botanical themes into his work. Similarly, Dries Van Noten’s horticultural enthusiasm directly shapes his aesthetic, with floral motifs appearing in many collections. Diane von Furstenberg’s restless energy defines her lifestyle. Known for constant movement, she spends time sailing and travelling, rarely staying in one place for long. This dynamism mirrors the fluidity and adaptability of her designs.
These designers prove that personal passions often fuel creative innovation. Their hobbies—whether books, cars, or nature—have shaped some of fashion’s most iconic works. The influence of these interests remains visible in their collections and legacies.
