Dries Van Noten
Dries Van Noten, a contemporary fashion designer was
born in 1958 in Antwerp. He grew up in the world of textiles. At the age
of sixteen he was already purchasing fabrics for his father’s clothing
store. Throughout his studies he created collections for Belgian and Italian
brands as a young independent designer.
He has been nominated three times for the Golden Spindle: 1982, 1983 and
1985.
Style
Dries Van Noten has always found his inspiration
in other cultures. Even in his first collections there are traces of Indian
influences. These cultural elements are the leitmotif of his collections.
Apart from India, Van Noten’s inspiration
comes from such countries as Morocco, Egypt, China and Thailand. He combines
stylistic elements from the West with those of the Far and Middle East.
The result is contemporary, never strictly ethnic or folksy; Dries Van
Noten interprets the beauty of femininity from Berber women or geishas,
decking them in new garments. He combines an ordinary white blouse with
a wrap over skirt, a simple jacket acquires kimono sleeves or an arabesque
pattern.
He designs clothes for all types of men and women whatever their shape
or size. He succeeds in making suits for men who do not want to wear suits,
and dresses for women who do not like wearing dresses. Dries Van Noten
is an expert in the art of opposites – simple yet sophisticated,
classic and innovative somehow sustaining a strong sense of the traditional.
Accessories play an important part in Van Noten’s work. If he cannot
find what he wants in Belgium or Europe, he goes elsewhere. The elaborately
sequined and embroidered scarves, which are signature accessories in the
Dries Van Noten’ look and mood are, for instance, made in Indonesia.
Shows
Dries Van Noten’s is constantly trying
to unbalance the fashion world. Every show is something of a party, with
snacks and drinks. Dries Van Noten always eeks out a special venue, with
a stylish decor.
Despite his international successes Dries Van Noten remains loyal to Antwerp.
He actually calls his city “cosmopolitan village”. In 1989
he opened a new shop in Antwerp: “Het Modepaleis” which personified
the image of his label. In this building dating from 1881 and situated
right in the heart of the old town, he presents his own collections –
of men’s, women’ s and shoes.
