Karl Lagerfeld thinks Coco Chanel would have "hated" his work.

The flamboyant designer - who is creative director at both Fendi and Chanel - believes he has done well at the fashion house because he was given total freedom, though he doesn't think the label's founder would have approved of his creations.

Asked how he copes with his workload, Karl said: "I have it in my blood. When I was asked to Chanel, it was not trendy. I made something of it because I was given total freedom by the owner. What I do Coco would have hated. It's my job to keep Chanel updated."

Karl also admitted he often forgets work he has done in the past, but is not upset by this as he thinks it has helped with his career.

Discussing his many collaborations - including work with Coca Cola, Macy's and Magnum - he told CNN: "I'm a walking label no? My name is Labelfeld not Lagerfeld. I have a sort of Alzheimer's for my own work, which I think is a very good thing. Today too many people remember what they did - just forget it all and start again."