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Karl Lagerfeld has created a new vintage bag as part of a Chanel couture line for Fall 2012. In the creating process, the iconic designer was inspired by his cat, Choupette. What other inspirations has Lagerfeld had in recent years?

Karl Lagerfeld is one of the most talented fashion creators of our era. He sets fashion trends for both men and women all over the world. If you are wearing a Lagerfeld item, or if you can only dream of one, it is interesting to know what inspires the genius. Here is a list of Lagerfeld’s inspirations in recent years.

Chanel Couture Fall 2010 – Lions were the most identifying trend during this Chanel Couture fashion show. Lagerfeld used Russian elements as inspiration for his collection. During the show, stunning models stepped out of a huge lion holding a big pearl and then walked the runway. The last model on the catwalk was escorted by male model Baptiste Giabiconi, who wore a lion’s head mask.

Chanel Pre-Fall 2011 – The Chanel line pays homage to one of history’s most decadent period – the Byzantine period. The luxury fourteen piece collection included chunky jewelry which was the heart of this collection. “Inspiration is not a copy but a starting point that takes us somewhere new”, said Lagerfeld at the end of the show. Yes, indeed.

Chanel Pre-Fall 2012 – The German born designer drew inspiration from India for this collection. “It's the Paris version of the idea of India”, explained the designer who never visited the exotic country. The collection included metallic saris, shades of fuchsia, hand-painted floral motifs and heavily kohl-rimmed eyes. Though it was presented in Paris, it almost felt like Bombay.

Chanel Spring 2012 Ready-To-Wear Collection – Though it is not a couture collection, Lagerfeld puts forth his best efforts in order to make each of his shows unforgettable. The inspiration for this line was the bottom of the ocean. The overwhelmed crowd had the privilege to watch a magical underwater world. Corals, shells and seahorses were a part of the whole show. The models emerged from a clear bubble-lined cave wearing traditional materials which were given an underwater twist.

Chanel Couture Spring 2012 – This time around,  Karl Lagerfeld went for a completely different direction. According to his vision, a life-size jumbo set was built, including all the little details, such as luggage lockers, walkways and even Champagne for the crowd. The inspiration for his Spring couture collection was taken from the 1960s – the glamour days of air travel.

Chanel Couture Fall 2012 – In this recent couture fashion show Karl Lagerfeld revealed a magnificent vintage bag as part of the brand’s couture fashion show. The designer was inspired by his cat, Choupette, in the designing process. The Siamese cat influenced Lagerfeld that presented a knitted soft (but not furry) couture bag.

Following his last inspiration, it is almost impossible to predict what Karl Lagerfeld will bring us in his upcoming collections. FashionTV will bring you the best of Lagerfeld and other fashion top designers from Paris and Milan fashion weeks. Stay tuned.