Karl Lagerfeld gets Busy - Partners with Fossil, Gears up to Launch Namesake Brand

Longtime Chanel frontman KARL LAGERFELD has been quite occupied lately and it doesn't seem that the 78-year-old fashion industry legend wants to take a break anytime soon.  Accessories giant Fossil, Inc announced its partnership with the legendary designer last week and that he will be designing, distributing, and developing a line men's and women's Fossil made timepieces under the Karl Lagerfeld label.  "It is essential for us to work with the best license partners in each segment -- that is why we are happy to partner up with Fossil, Pier Paolo Righi, president of KARL LAGERFELD, said in a recent press release.

While the designer's first timepiece collection isn't scheduled to launch until Spring 2013, KARL LAGERFELD fans will be able to buy other goods from the brand via the upcoming KARL website that is scheduled to launch this February 2012.  Those who simply can't wait for the launch will be able to buy select pieces pre-launch exclusively at NET-A-PORTER starting on January 25th, 2011. 

The KARL brand is being touted as a sort of baby step for the luxury design market.  Whereas brand executives in this catagory were hesitant in the past, they finally seem to be giving the collective nod of approval to stepping into the world of internet retail.  ...and with market researchers like Bain & Co predicting constant increases in online sales of luxury brands, it might well be a world worth embracing. 

As of right now, it appears that the KARL brand, which is poised to become synonymous with "rock chic," will be sold exclusively online.  Items will be priced in the 60-300 euro range according to an October 24th Reuter's report.