Karl Lagerfeld: a life in pictures

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Celebrities and leading figures from the fashion world have been paying tribute to iconic designer Karl Lagerfeld following his death at the age of 85 from cancer.

The German-born visionary - known as the Emperor, or “Kaiser” in his native language - was admitted to the American Hospital on the outskirts of Paris last night and passed away early this morning. Rumours about his deteriorating health “had swirled for several weeks after he missed a number of events”, the BBC reports.

A source close to Lagerfeld told the London Evening Standard: “He hadn’t gone on about his illness, but battled it very bravely. Karl was very proud of his fitness and healthy living, so the pancreatic cancer came as a huge shock.”

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The fashion legend, who was the creative director for Chanel and Fendi, was “one of the most prolific and admired designers of modern times”, and had an “unparalleled” influence on the industry during his 64-year career, says The Guardian.

Fans including Victoria Beckham have been posting messages on social media praising his extraordinary contribution to the world of haute couture.