Launched in 1982, KL by Karl Lagerfeld carried a name that was as bold and minimalist as the designer himself. The initials "KL" — Lagerfeld’s own monogram — conveyed an immediate sense of personal branding and luxury. In a decade where fashion houses were expanding into fragrance, this choice underscored Lagerfeld’s growing influence beyond couture. The simplicity of the name, devoid of florid language, mirrored the sharp, graphic logos dominating high fashion at the time — think Chanel’s interlocking C’s (where Lagerfeld also reigned) or YSL’s bold initials. The name "KL" evoked sophistication, modernity, and exclusivity — a signature scent that felt both intimate and high-profile.
The early 1980s were a time of cultural and social transformation. The era saw the rise of power dressing, fueled by the increasing presence of women in corporate and public life. Sharp shoulders, tailored silhouettes, and luxurious fabrics defined the wardrobe of the modern woman — a visual statement of strength and ambition. Fashion designers like Lagerfeld became celebrities, and their creations symbolized status and style. This period, often characterized as the "Decade of Excess," was marked by economic shifts, technological advances, and a cultural embrace of opulence. The fragrance industry reflected this mood, with bold, statement-making scents dominating the market — a departure from the softer, greener fragrances of the 1970s.
