Super excited to be in Antwerp for the week! (For those of you wondering exactly what continent I’m on – Antwerp’s in Belgium so, Europe!) Before I even landed I was dreaming waffles, pommes frites, fresh chocolates…*drool*! But the icing on the cake? – The shopping! To most people’s surprise, Antwerp is listed amongst the top fashion cities of the world and after one trip here you’ll quickly realize why. With hundreds of home-grown boutiques and international labels lining quaint cobblestone lanes, this place is a fashionistas paradise.
This small town was put on the fashion map in 1988 by six graduates of Antwerp’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts – the group rented a van, loaded on their pieces, and headed straight for the London fashion fair. They created a bang in London and became known as the Antwerp Six. Ever since then they’ve not only been the pride of Antwerp, but leading authority figures and trend-setters of global fashion.
No trip to Antwerp is complete without viewing their most recent collections (and going home with a few show-off worthy pieces, of course!).
1. Dries Van Noten
Dries Van Noten, Nationalestraat 16, 2000 Antwerpen
The most internationally recognized of the Antwerp 6, Dries Van Noten is famed for his Western designs laced with Eastern elements. His signature style has come to include floral motifs, kimono style dresses and jackets, and brightly-colored pieces. Not surprising, as he often draws inspiration from the culture and traditions of India, China, and Indonesia.
Dries Van Noten (Source: https://www.facebook.com/driesvannoten)
Dries Van Noten (Source: https://www.facebook.com/driesvannoten)
Dries Van Noten (Source: https://www.facebook.com/driesvannoten)
Dries Van Noten (Source: https://www.facebook.com/driesvannoten)
Dries Van Noten (Source: https://www.facebook.com/driesvannoten)
Dries Van Noten (Source: https://www.facebook.com/driesvannoten)
Even First Lady Michelle Obama is a fan!
Love his flagship store in Antwerp, feels so Belle époque!
2. Ann Demeulemeester
Ann Demeulemeester, Leopold de Waelplaats, 2000 Antwerpen
Not far behind Van Noten in international acclaim, Ann Demeulemeester has taken punk/rock/goth clothing and brought it into the world of couture fashion. From day one, she’s stuck true to her black and white designs, which impart an androgynous feel and a slouchy masculine look.
Ann Demeulemeester (Source: https://www.facebook.com/AnnDemeulemeester)
Ann Demeulemeester (Source: https://www.facebook.com/AnnDemeulemeester)
Ann Demeulemeester (Source: https://www.facebook.com/AnnDemeulemeester)
Ann Demeulemeester (Source: https://www.facebook.com/AnnDemeulemeester)
Ann Demeulemeester (Source: https://www.facebook.com/AnnDemeulemeester)
Ann Demeulemeester (Source: https://www.facebook.com/AnnDemeulemeester)
Her store in Antwerp…
3. Dirk Bikkembergs
If you thought that “casual couture” could never be a thing, then think again. Although Dirk Bikkembergs rose to fame for his military-inspired menswear line (which, if I may say, makes for a super hot, effortless-chic look), I love how his women-wear combines feminine detailing with a sporty edge.
Dirk Bikkembergs (Source: https://www.facebook.com/dirkbikkembergs)
Dirk Bikkembergs (Source: https://www.facebook.com/dirkbikkembergs)
Dirk Bikkembergs (Source: https://www.facebook.com/dirkbikkembergs)
Dirk Bikkembergs (Source: https://www.facebook.com/dirkbikkembergs)
Dirk Bikkembergs (Source: https://www.facebook.com/dirkbikkembergs)
Dirk Bikkembergs (Source: https://www.facebook.com/dirkbikkembergs)
4. Dirk Van Saene
DVS, Schuttershofstraat 9, 1st Floor, 2000 Antwerpen
Widely noted for his creative imagination, Dirk Van Saene has always gone against convention when it comes to creating his signature look. Think more along the lines of artwork than clothing.
Dirk Van Saene (Source: Instagram | @flanders_fashion_institute)
Dirk Van Saene (Source: Instagram | @momuantwerp)
His store in Antwerp…
5. Walter Van Beirendonk
DVS, Schuttershofstraat 9, 1st Floor, 2000 Antwerpen
The best way to summarize Walter Van Beirendonk’s signature style is to simply visit his homepage:
Yup, this is Beirendonk fashion in a nutshell – strong use of graphics, incorporation of political statements, and eclectic color combos. It may be a bit much for us non-models to successfully pull off an entire Beirendonk outfit, but one statement piece can add the perfect amount of funk to your look.
Walter Van Beirendonk (Source: https://www.facebook.com/waltervanbeirendonckfanpage)
Walter Van Beirendonk (Source: https://www.facebook.com/waltervanbeirendonckfanpage)
Walter Van Beirendonk (Source: https://www.facebook.com/waltervanbeirendonckfanpage)
Walter Van Beirendonk (Source: https://www.facebook.com/waltervanbeirendonckfanpage)
6. Marina Yee
MY Workshop, Varkensmarkt 3, 1000 Brussels
The most low-key of the Antwerp Six, Marina Yee has one of the most unique approaches to designing that I’ve ever heard of. Yee collects old clothes – diverse pieces from flea markets, damaged clothes from her own closet, and even old curtains & blankets – and reworks them into couture designer wear. She’s quite discreet about her designs, so you’re gonna have to stop by her boutique to see most of her masterpieces!
Which one of these are you most drawn to?