Given the Met Gala’s theme of “A Line Of Beauty: Karl Lagerfeld” this year, it’s no surprise that there is renewed interest in the late designer’s vast archive. Vintage Chanel is always highly sought-after, but his time at Chloé—two stints from 1963 to 1983 and from 1992 to 1997—is long overdue for a revival.

Brynn Jones, founder of Aralda Vintage, tells Vogue that “Lagerfeld-era Chloé is a great investment because it tends to be hard to come by. When you are able to get your hands on any of those pieces, you’re blessed with a beautifully made historical garment.”

Lagerfeld’s early pieces at Chloé—his first foray into ready-to-wear—are among the most rare. Lauren Lepire, founder of Timeless Vixen, notes that “his work from the late 1960s and early 1970s shows how well he works with prints. The bold graphics with flattering silhouettes really speak to my personal taste.”

The designer’s surrealist influences were also on full display during his time at Chloé, with stand-out pieces such as his famous “Shower” dress from fall 1983 and “Violin” dress from spring 1984. The latter was re-issued by Chloé in 2013 for the French fashion house’s 60th anniversary and worn by Chloë Sevigny that same year.

Lagerfeld’s spring 1985 collection, entitled “A Homage to Dressmaking”, is also worth noting. Lepire comments that “it really speaks to me for his ability to mix sophistication with a whimsical air.”

The bohemian aesthetic that Chloé is so well-known for is present throughout Lagerfeld’s collections for the house, with spring 1994—featuring a series of delicate floral dresses—being a prime example. Jones describes that “with lots of skin showing and fabric flowing, the models looked like ethereal goddesses. The hair pieces and accessories from that collection were amazing as well.”

One major selling point for Lagerfeld’s Chloé is how easy-to-wear so many of the pieces are, even today. Sabrina Marshall, co-founder of Re-See, explains that “Karl was the first to do wearable print day dresses for Chloé, which people should look for as an investment piece.”
Since its inception in 1952, the fashion house of Chloé has been making a name for itself in the industry, ushering in feminine, romantic, and timeless pieces. With each new creative director, the house sees its own evolution of style, and the expectations of Chloé are no exception.

One of the most notable creative directors in Chloé’s history is Karl Lagerfeld, who designed for the house from 1963 to 1983. During his tenure, Lagerfeld solidified the label’s reputation as a go-to for wardrobe staples and reimagined the 1980s with vibrant jackets, bomber jackets, and other modernized designs.

The fashion house becomes more desirable each season, but there is something special about having a piece of the Lagerfeld-era. Many of his pieces leave us with the same romantic yet intense feeling that first appeared in the 1960s. It is also a great way to add a little luxury to your wardrobe without breaking the bank, as vintage Chloé pieces are still quite affordable.

Lagerfeld-era Chloé pieces—such as floaty maxi dresses, broderie anglaise blouses, and embroidered or patchwork denim—are all collectible. The label’s signature patchwork suedes are also a must-have for fashion lovers who are looking to invest in vintage Chloé pieces. This period of Chloé is regarded as a pinnacle in the label’s history; with Lagerfeld, it was able to establish itself as a leader in the European fashion world and become a symbol of timeless and sophisticated style.

Chloé has a special place in the fashion world—and having a piece of the Lagerfeld-era in your wardrobe can be the perfect way to capture the brand’s legacy. Whether you purchase a pre-loved item or something from a vintage boutique, investing in vintage Lagerfeld-era pieces is sure to be a rewarding experience.