Fendi x Karl Lagerfeld 1970s Fur Appliqué Coat

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

Karl Lagerfeld was hired by Fendi in 1965, initially in a freelance capacity before being appointed creative director of fur. The partnership lasted some 64 years until Lagerfeld’s death in 2019; becoming not only fashion’s longest standing collaboration but arguably one its most important with both Lagerfeld and Fendi now unequivocally part of the canon.

At the time Lagerfeld joined the house, Fendi were the market leaders in fur design, focusing particularly on the luxury market. Together, they were able to revolutionise the fabric, taking it from a fierce symbol of bourgeoisie to something dynamic and completely new, playing with colour, weight and application along the way.

Fendi’s iconic double “F” logo - famously sketched by Lagerfeld - with one upright F and the other inverted, stood for “Fun Furs” emblematic of the collaborative vision.

In 1977, Lagerfeld launched Fendi’s ready-to-wear line, Fendi 365. Produced by Contir, the creations featured furs with endless possibilities that suited the needs of the consumer and were available for women of every social position, debunking the traditional pretension that the fabric evoked.

This coat is a beautiful example of one of these creations. From the late 70s, it is constructed of thick wool with cashmere fur. The silhouette is long, unstructured and flowy. The coat features a shawl collar with an appliquéd brown fur motif that twists down to the hem. The linear pattern is reminiscent of the Roman meander artistic style, commonly seen in decorative borders wherein a long, continuous line repeatedly folds back on itself mimicking the many twists and turns of the ancient Meander River. Perfect for winter, it has bold shoulder pads and curved sleeves creating a dark, powerful silhouette reminiscent of 70s glamour. The coat also includes a belt which can be tied to the cinch the waist and dramatically alter the silhouette.

Made in Italy.

60% Wool, 40% Cashmere

Condition: No flaws - outstanding condition for its age.

SIZE & FIT:

Size: IT40

Fit: Flowy with a flared hem. Waist can be cinched with matching belt.

Measurements:

• Shoulder Width: 61.5cm

• Pit-to-Pit: 58cm

• Hem: 119cm

• Body Length: 120cm

• Sleeve Length: 45.5cm

• Belt Length: 143cm

All measurements are taken with the garment laid flat.