It was a mutual respect between Lagerfeld and the people and culture of China. In 2010 he moved his fashion show to Shanghai, inspired by the Chinese traditions that Coco Chanel herself loved during her life.

In 2007 he devised a Fendi show in Beijing set against the backdrop of the Great Wall, with 88 models taking to"the world's longest catwalk" at sunset. It's a show that's remembered as one of Asia's most iconic.

At the time Lagerfeld spoke of the awe inspired in him by the ingenuity of ancient peoples, and how for fashion to truly connect with the masses, it needs to reflect and speak to history.

"Fashion is a kind of show business too. You know, show videos play in boutiques around the world. If you just have a white wall with a girl walking out, nobody looks at it," he said.