Iconic fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld dead at the age of 85

The German born fashion “Kaiser” – known for his trademark look of dark sunglasses, high collars and white ponytail – was admitted to the American Hospital on the outskirts of Paris last night and passed away early this morning.

His signature ponytail and dark glasses made him an instantly recognisable figure around the world.

Industry heavyweights, including Italian designer Donatella Versace, issued heartfelt tributes.

“Today the world lost a giant among men,” said the editor-in-chief of Vogue magazine, Anna Wintour.

Lagerfeld’s website says his year of birth was 1938 – though most placed his age at five years older.

Rumours of Lagerfeld’s ill health had swirled for several weeks after he missed a number of events – including Chanel’s spring/summer show last month.

He died on Tuesday morning after being admitted to hospital the night before, French media report.

Paying tribute to “a prolific creative mind with endless imagination,” the house of Chanel on Tuesday confirmed “with deep sadness” the passing of its longtime creative director Karl Lagerfeld and said his longtime right-hand woman Virginie Viard would succeed him.

Meanwhile, Fendi was preparing to present Lagerfeld’s last collection for the brand in Milan on Thursday, as planned.