Paris Hilton returns as the face of Karl Lagerfeld

As the face of the Maison through Fall-Winter 2026 and Spring-Summer 2027, Paris Hilton returns for the next chapter of Karl Lagerfeld's story, continuing to bring her signature confidence, wit and individuality. Photographed for the first time by Matt Easton, the Fall-Winter 2026 campaign introduces a new dimension to the narrative while remaining true to the House's established codes.

At the heart of the Fall-Winter 2026 story, two masters of self-reinvention meet. Making his debut is NOT-KARL, a charismatic digital character and new member in the brand’s world.

Appearing alongside Paris Hilton, he brings a fresh dimension to the storytelling. Set against a series of retro multi-screen televisions, he appears throughout the campaign with Paris, bringing contrast, humor and playful irreverence to the narrative - marking the first step in NOT-KARL’s broader story beyond this season.

"Paris has brought energy, authenticity and a strong sense of individuality to our campaigns over the past two seasons,” says Pier Paolo Righi, CEO of Karl Lagerfeld. "Continuing that relationship while introducing NOT-KARL feels particularly meaningful. As a new member of the brand’s world, he brings wit and irreverence, creating an unexpected dialogue with Paris and giving us new and innovative ways to play with format, storytelling and perspective while remaining true to Karl’s point of view.”

Paris Hilton poses for a photograph. AP

Together, Paris Hilton and NOT-KARL form an unexpected on-screen duo, their contrasting personalities creating a playful dynamic throughout the campaign. Their exchanges create a sense of spontaneity within the story, while reinforcing the campaign’s central themes of individuality and self-reinvention.

"Continuing the relationship feels incredibly special,” says Paris Hilton. "Every campaign has felt like its own moment, and I love that we keep finding new ways to bring our worlds together. Having NOT-KARL on set made this shoot feel so iconic and just unexpected - it brought such a magical energy. I’m excited for what’s to come next!”

This season, Paris is joined by Kit Butler as the face of menswear. With his understated confidence and strong fashion profile, Kit is a contemporary counterpart to Paris, and their long-standing friendship lends effortless chemistry.

There are also two special cameo appearances to watch out for, adding a playful note to the story.

The Fall-Winter 2026 collection brings together sharp tailoring, elevated outerwear and the graphic simplicity that defines the House. Rendered in a predominantly monochromatic palette, the collection balances strong silhouettes with refined details, from a long white shirt inspired by tuxedo dressing to the K/Autograph bag range, one of the season's defining accessories.

The Fall-Winter 2026 campaign will launch globally across digital, social, print and out-of-home platforms beginning September 1st, 2026, bringing together the KARL LAGERFELD, KARL LAGERFELD JEANS and KARL LAGERFELD PARIS collections under a single creative narrative.

The campaign will be celebrated during Paris Fashion Week with a special event hosted by the Maison. Further details will be announced early September.

Associated Press