Fashion Update: Antwerp six

Seeing as we are travelling to Antwerp tomorrow after a brief stop in Brussels, I thought it would be a good idea to research the legends that made Antwerp, the fashion capitol that it is today - The Antwerp Six.

A group of influential avant garde fashion designers, that graduated from the Antwerp Royal Academy of Fine Arts in the eighties. At the academy they were taught by Linda Loppa. The fashion collective presented a distinct radical vision for fashion during the 80's.

The Antwerp Six was made up of Ann Demeulemeester, Walter van Beirendonck, Dirk van Saene, Dries van Noten, Dirk Bekkanbergs, Marina Yee.

Ann Demeulemeester:

The one that brought an arty moodiness to the Antwerp Six.Her collections usually features neutral  tones and  an androgynous look, always staying true to her muse Patti Smith's style while designing.

Walter van Beirendonck:

His designs are inspired by art, music and literature, all mixed with ethnic and natural influences. His unusual colour combinations, innovating cuts and a strong graphic influence are characteristics of his collections.

Dirk van Saene: 

A designer known for his imagination, he loves to trick and amaze his audience. Not a trend follower, he loves originality and doing things his way.

Dries van Noten:

His designs are known for their informal mix of eastern and western or folklore fabrics. Van Noten always had a passion for fabrics, this is why his clothes are made by hand. His biggest inspiration is the city of Antwerp, where he lives and works.

Dirk bikkembergs:

Inspired by his youth, many of his lines reflect military basics on a deeper level. Combining tough fabrics with smooth PVC in many a collection.

Marina Yee:

Her professional carrier features leather collections and reconstructed pieces. Her work reflects spirituality, respect and design. She does commercial, once-off pieces and theater costumes.

I will be visiting the Antwerp Academy of Fine Arts next week and hope to get some wonderful photo's of the Antwerp Six's work, the beautiful Building where it is housed and the locals rocking some original Antwerp designs.