Karl Lagerfeld takes on the opera in new creative role

Fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld can now add opera costume couturier to his extensive resume.

The designer, who splits his time as the creative director of Chanel, Fendi and his namesake label, in addition to numerous pet projects, was tapped by the Opéra Bastille to create the costumes for an upcoming summer production. Mr. Lagerfeld’s appointment was determined by Benjamin Millepied, who is leaving his position as Opéra Bastille’s director of dance, citing personal reasons.

A new project
Mr. Lagerfeld will be responsible for the costume designs for "Brahms-Schönberg Quartet." The dancers will perform a George Balanchine dance piece at the Opéra Bastille July 2-15.

To prepare for his role as costume designer for the opera, Mr. Lagerfeld has rented an apartment nearby, and decorated the space with his own collection of Art Deco furniture to match the spirit of the performance.

In a statement given to WWD, Mr. Lagerfeld said, “This is a more romantic Balanchine. I’ll make it very Vienna Secession. That’s the mood of the music.”

Mr. Millepied, who selected Mr. Lagerfeld prior to his departure as director of dance at the opera, is no stranger to the inner workings of luxury fashion.

For example, Italian apparel and accessories label Berluti put its bespoke capabilities in the spotlight through the creation of a custom suit for Mr. Millepied.

Mr. Millepied for Berluti

For Mr. Millepied’s return to the stage at L.A. Dance Project’s annual fundraiser Dec. 12, 2015 Berluti’s then-designer Alessandro Sartori made a suit of wool and elstane, giving him the flexibility needed to perform. Ballet has frequently been a stage for fashion brands to prove their ability to think outside of the runway, while also showcasing the lines of their designs (see story).