Exlusive: Amber Valletta about the new sustainable KARL LAGERFELD capsule collection

Supermodel Amber Valletta, who inspired photographers like Peter Lindbergh, is not only the face of the new campaign, but co-designed it. In the interview, Amber Valletta explains her personal sustainability moments and why the experience with the KARL LAGERFELD brand is so important to her.

The KARL LAGERFELD brand is working with sustainable materials for Spring/Summer 2022 and has also brought supermodel Amber Valletta on board.

The ready-to-wear pieces were made from natural materials. Linen and cotton are GRS certified in the process. Vegan leather produced from leaves of cacti as well as the Austrian material Tencel by Lenzing was used. The standout piece of the collection is the iconic KARL LAGERFELD Odina biker jacket.

And of course, L'Officiel Austria had to interview the brand's Sustainability Ambassador, Amber Valletta, who was instrumental in the design process.

What has been the highlight of working with KARL LAGERFELD on this experience, so far?

Amber Valletta: "I’m thrilled to say that there have been multiple highlights! First and foremost, it’s the opportunity to work on a project that’s all about sustainability and work with Karl’s namesake brand; it’s also the chance to collaborate with KARL LAGERFELD’s team around the globe and offer a collection that’s both desirable and sustainable."

What three words would you use to describe this collection?

Amber Valletta: "Sustainable, timeless, cool."

What creative input on the collection did you have?

Amber Valletta: "This collection was a true collaboration with the KARL LAGERFELD team, who involved me in every step of the design and production process. We thoughtfully chose the fabrics and designs based on the best environmental choices at hand. I am excited that this capsule collection truly reflects my style."

What was your vision for the collection?

Amber Valletta: "My vision was to create a sustainable collection that is timeless, such as a biker jacket, a little black dress, and a casual suit for instance. We designed the collection to be effortlessly chic where the pieces could be interchangeable with multiple looks."

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Snapshot! Amber Valletta enjoyed the beach at the shoot. (Photo: PR)

How was the collection mindfully designed and produced?

Amber Valletta: "A lot of thought went into each design and production decision. We eliminated unnecessary parts of the design like zippers that could make the end of life of a product more difficult to break down. We selected fabrics using natural fibers with third-party certifications. We deliberated on where fabrics were sourced and how many fabrics were coming from different parts of the world, then kept production close to the fabric/fiber source to minimize shipping and reduce the carbon footprint where feasible. The production team carefully sourced recycled components such as zippers and buttons, as much as possible. Overall, we worked together across the different teams at KARL LAGERFELD to make conscious decisions that lowered the carbon footprint and environmental impact across the supply chain.

What did you learn in this process about designing and producing sustainability?

Amber Valetta: "My biggest takeaway continues to be the importance of working together because nothing truly gets done well in a vacuum. KARL LAGERFELD team are wonderful collaborators. I’m even more convinced that we all must collaborate to move the needle in fashion. It’s going to take all of us, bringing our unique perspectives together to make real change."

"Karl’s iconic influence is at the core of this collection, I see it as borrowing the best pieces from my boyfriend’s closet." Amber Valletta

Highly concentrated: Amber Valletta and the team of the KARL LAGERFELD campaign at the shoot (Photo: PR)

What is the message behind the collection?

Amber Valletta: "Great style doesn’t have to be at the expense of sustainability."

Do you have a highlight piece in your new collection?

Amber Valletta: "The cactus leather biker jacket. I love that it’s made with a vegan material and naturally dyed; it’s super chic and the perfect timeless piece!"

How would you describe the style of the capsule collection?

Amber Valletta: "Karl’s iconic influence is at the core of this collection, I see it as borrowing the best pieces from my boyfriend’s closet. Which materials were used? How did you choose them?"

Timeless pieces that can always be recombined were especially important to Amber Valletta during the design process. (Photos: PR)

A sustainable capsule collection: KARL LAGERFELD x Amber Valletta

How do you make your own wardrobe more sustainable?

Amber Valletta: "I don’t buy many new things, and if I do, I make sure They are timeless pieces that I will wear for many years."

Do you recycle old clothes or wear second hand?

Amber Valletta: "I both recycle my old clothes and wear second-hand."

What is your top fashion moment and why?

Amber Valletta: "I can’t pick one! But I can say that Karl is very special to me and is in many of them! I’ve been so blessed to work with some of the most creative artists on the planet, from designers to make-up and hair, to photographers, stylists, and art directors. For me, the people I get to work with are the highlights. What is your biggest dream in life? Peace in the world and a healthy planet.

What’s your current obsession?

Amber Valletta: "The Book 'A Course in Miracles'".

What’s the one thing you always carry in your purse?

Amber Valletta: "My phone."

What’s the best style advice you’d tell your friends?

Amber Valletta: "Take one accessory off."

Can you describe your wardrobe?

Amber Valletta: "Boyish, relaxed, cool, rock 'n' roll."

Green or black?

Amber Valletta: "Green for nature. Black for wardrobe."

Skirt or pants?

Amber Valletta: "Pants. Especially a great suit."