Belgian fashion luminary Dries Van Noten has announced his departure from the role of creative director at his eponymous brand. At 65 years old, the esteemed designer will be retiring in June following the upcoming Paris Fashion Week menswear presentation. His final official collection will be showcased in the menswear spring/summer 2025 lineup.
Over nearly four decades, Van Noten has steered the luxury label renowned for its vibrant color palettes and impeccable tailoring.
After earning his fashion design degree from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in 1981, Van Noten established his brand five years later. He was a pivotal figure among ‘The Antwerp Six,’ a collective of six designers committed to reshaping the fashion landscape, alongside Walter Van Beirendonck, Ann Demeulemeester, Dirk Van Saene, Dirk Bikkembergs, and Marina Yee.
Van Noten made his debut at Paris Fashion Week in 1991 with a menswear collection, subsequently expanding into womenswear two years later, solidifying his position as a centerpiece of the event.
Throughout his illustrious career, Van Noten has cultivated a luxury brand favored by many. His latest designs often incorporate nostalgic elements while pushing boundaries with silhouette, featuring signature touches like voluminous dresses and oversized coats. He frequently draws inspiration from his home garden, infusing floral motifs into his creations.
The designer shared his decision with fans and industry insiders via Instagram, opening his announcement with “Dear friends.”
In his message, Van Noten reflected:
“In the early ’80s, as a young man in Antwerp, my aspiration was to make an impact in fashion.
Through a journey that took me to London, Paris… that aspiration has been fulfilled. Now, I wish to redirect my focus towards endeavors I’ve not had the time to explore.”