It is a classic design that has sold 6m times since its launch in 1955. It may be one of the most copied pieces of furniture in the world. And it remains popular with modern-day homeowners. But even icons such as the Series Seven chair by Danish architect-designer Arne Jacobsen need to be re-invented once in a while.

So to celebrate its 50th birthday, the chair will get 13 new looks next month, courtesy of designers at fashion, accessories and home furnishings brands such as Louis Vuitton, Georg Jensen, Paul Smith and Missoni. All were commissioned by Copenhagen-based Fritz Hansen, which manufactures the Series Seven, and will be presented in exhibitions in London, Milan, New York and Tokyo before being sold at auction next spring to raise funds for the fight against Aids in Africa.