Dries Van Noten

Italian, French, or American labels often dominate the fashion industry. However, the Belgian brand "Dries Van Noten", named after its founder, shows that things can be different when designs are unique and collections are inspiring. When Dries Van Noten was born in Antwerp in 1958, his path was already mapped out. His grandfather was a tailor, and his father created one of Belgium’s most innovative retailers of ‘Pret-a-Porter’. After school, Dries Van Noten entered the fashion design course of Antwerp’s Royal Academy, and then began to freelance as a consultant designer in numerous fashion studios and boutiques before launching his collections. In 1986, he founded the "Antwerp Six" with five other fashion enthusiasts. In the same year, the designer launched his first men's collection on the catwalk in the British capital, followed by a line for women in 1987. Since then, the women's collection has steadily expanded and given much more space than men's fashion. Since its beginnings, Dries Van Noten has presented collections for women and men every season, along with a temporary line for children in 1996. The Belgian label's upscale target group appreciates the exquisite and pricey fabrics and patterns. Dries Van Noten has now launched several boutiques worldwide. In addition, the creations and fragrances (perfumes, soaps, creams) are sold by numerous retail partners and on the brand's website.