In a recent intimate interview with Highsnobiety, Dries Van Noten, one of the most iconic members of the Antwerp Six collective, shares his vision of fashion, his creative process, and his incessant desire for innovation. Known for his unique approach that combines elegance with functionality, Van Noten continues to redefine fashion standards with collections that are both beautiful and wearable. His ability to transform ordinary clothing into extraordinary pieces without ever compromising their utility is what sets him apart as a true fashion craftsman.
The keys to creativity according to Dries Van Noten
Van Noten highlights the crucial importance of surrounding yourself with young talent within your creative team. This youth, according to him, is not defined by age but by an open and curious mentality, always ready to explore and innovate. Van Noten values this freshness of mind to stay in step with the constant developments in fashion and society. Novelty, for him, is the engine of creative energy, a vital element that allows his brand to continue to surprise and captivate its audience. By surrounding himself with people who bring new perspectives and ideas, Van Noten ensures that his brand remains dynamic and forward-thinking.
The Quest for Balance
In his creative process, Van Noten constantly seeks to find the right balance between beauty and functionality. Each piece he creates is a work of art in itself, but it is also designed to be worn in everyday life. This duality is at the heart of Van Noten's philosophy: creating clothing that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and durable. This delicate balance between art and utility defines the very essence of the Dries Van Noten brand, offering its customers pieces that are both timeless and innovative.
Constant Evolution
Van Noten expresses a relentless desire for progression and experimentation. Despite numerous awards and international recognition, he remains focused on the future, always seeking to reinvent himself and push the limits of his creativity. This thirst for evolution is what keeps Van Noten at the forefront of the fashion industry. He sees change not as a challenge but as an opportunity for growth and innovation. For Van Noten, stagnation is the enemy of creativity; therefore it strives to maintain a constant forward momentum, exploring new horizons and integrating new ideas into its collections.
These principles of youth, balance and constant evolution are the foundations on which Dries Van Noten built his legendary career in fashion. They reflect a vision of fashion that goes beyond fleeting trends, a vision that celebrates innovation, authenticity and timeless beauty.