Silvia Venturini Fendi on her memories of ‘genius’ designer

The 58-year-old Rome-born designer, who is now at the helm of one of Luxury group LVMH's most important labels, said that in her last meeting with Lagerfeld, he gave her a book about the Viennese Secession, an art and architectural movement, to use as a blueprint for the show.

When he died, the show’s starting point changed. Venturini Fendi found herself looking back at some of his greatest creations for Fendi and at the history of ancient Rome, which informed the 54 looks (an homage to Lagerfeld's years at the fashion house) presented.

The Colosseum provided the backdrop for Fendi’s autumn/winter 2019/2020 show. Photo: AFP

The late German designer was involved in the choice of the venue, and worked on initial preparations for the event until the very last moments before his death in February 2019 at the age of 85, Silvia Venturini Fendi, his long-time right-hand woman and the only family member still involved in the company, explained in an interview ahead of the show.

It was meant as a celebration of Lagerfeld’s work – his was the longest tenure of any creative director at a brand in the history of fashion – and of Fendi as the quintessential Roman brand. Instead, it became a bittersweet milestone for Venturini Fendi, who has known Lagerfeld since she was a child and considered him not only a work partner but a member of the Fendi clan.

Models present Fendi’s autumn/winter 2019/2020 collection on the Palatine Hill in front of the Colosseum in Rome. The show was a homage to fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld, Fendi’s creative director for 54 years. Photo: AP