Considering the impact that Karl Lagerfeld had on the world of fashion, it’s surprising to hear Stefano Tonchi say he seldom thought of his friend in the capacity of a fashion designer. “Somehow, I never looked at him through the eyes of a fashion person, because that’s not how I personally knew him,” recalls Tonchi, the esteemed editor. “I hadn’t seen his latest designs for Chloé; I hadn’t been to the latest Chanel show. I discovered Karl because of his love of culture."

The year was 2004. Tonchi had just founded T:The New York Times Style Magazine, following stints at Esquire and The Sunday Times Magazine amongst others. He says that since his fashion expertise was in menswear and Lagerfeld’s was in women’s ready-to-wear and couture, the pair connected over their mutual interests in creative arts: history, people, places, architecture, interior design and exhibitions. “I don’t remember conversations about fashion or clothes,” Tonchi says of their encounters at Lagerfeld’s Parisian studio. “But I heard a lot about his love of furniture — and how he lived in his own world.”

And so, in the summer of 2008 — as the editorial team of T Magazine began to concept its holiday issue — Tonchi had the idea to feature Lagerfeld in “Profile in Style,” a story that explores the inspirations, items and fascinations that influence creative minds. Lagerfeld’s popularity was at an all-time high and Tonchi hoped he would agree to the idea, knowing what little time his friend had for such requests.