One of the buzziest first-time Met Gala attendees is undeniably Jennie Kim of Blackpink. As one of Karl Lagerfeld’s last handpicked muses for the house of Chanel, the musician is a welcome presence on the red carpet, which honours the late designer. Fellow Blackpink member Rosé gave Kim some advice for the night, “Rosie was here last year and said, “Go and have fun!” Kim told Emma Chamberlain on the livestream.
Kim has always wondered how people sit down in their extravagant gowns once they’re actually inside the exhibit. Luckily for her, the Chanel team made a reinterpretation of look 164 from Lagerfeld’s fall 1990 ready-to-wear collection, which just so happens to be a mini dress—Kim’s length of choice. The satin bustier dress is embellished with a simple white camellia with a ribbon tie at the bodice, while a matching flower is pinned to her hair.
Ahead of her arrival on the Met Gala red carpet in New York City, Kim remembers Lagerfeld’s legacy in her own words, her first ever Chanel show and how the look she wore to Met Gala 2023 feels so emblematic of Chanel as a brand.
What are three adjectives you would use to describe Karl Lagerfeld?
Iconic, Visionary, Authentic.
What was the most amazing Chanel fashion show under Karl Lagerfeld you’ve ever attended?
The most memorable show I attended of Karl’s was definitely my first ever Chanel show, spring/summer 2019 ready-to-wear. It was what “little Jennie” had always dreamed of, so I might have looked calm and collected, but my inner self was screaming. It was not only the best show, but an unforgettable highlight of my 20s. The runway setting was also a beach, so everything about it was like a dreamy and magical getaway.
How is the look you are wearing tonight iconic to Chanel?
I chose a look that to me, is the thing that pops in my head when I think “iconic Chanel”. It’s simple and classic, but also timeless. It’s elegant, but also chic. The camellia accent is also a key timeless icon for Chanel. This dress has everything that Chanel represents in one. The simplicity of black and white reminds me of the house’s core, and just by wearing it, I undeniably feel like a “Chanel girl.”
How is sharing this moment of Karl’s celebration with Virginie Viard so important?
Words cannot express how special and meaningful this moment is. I have heard many stories of Karl and Virginie’s special bond and know they had so much love and respect for each other. I also think their relationship was a key aspect to the legacy of Chanel as they carry the maison on, under their own re-imagination. So being here to celebrate Karl and the influence he had on the industry and brand with Virginie is both an honour and such a special moment for me.
This article was originally published on Vogue.com.
