The new creative director unveils his first collection amidst the historic backdrop of Palais Garnier, merging legacy with modernity as the brand approaches its 40th anniversary.
Julian Klausner made his much-anticipated debut as the head of Dries Van Noten’s women’s line with the fall/winter 2025 collection showcased at the Palais Garnier in Paris. With a spectacular backdrop that has hosted numerous fashion events, Klausner’s collection reflects both the legacy of the brand and his own fresh vision. “Today, I wanted to truly savor the joy of debuting and focus on the moment,” he said, capturing the excitement surrounding the presentation.
The show marks a significant milestone as it comes just shy of the brand’s 40th anniversary, which will be celebrated next year. Established in 1986, Dries Van Noten has long been recognized as one of the leading names in fashion, thanks in part to its founder, who is a key member of the famous Antwerp Six—a group of influential designers who emerged in the 1980s. Following the departure of Dries Van Noten himself, Klausner, who has been with the company since 2018 and has played an essential role in women’s collections, has now taken the helm.
Klausner, a 2016 graduate of La Cambre – Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Arts Visuels in Brussels, brings a new layer of artistry to the brand’s enduring legacy. His first collection as head designer embodies the spirit of the maison, fusing classical elements with modern sensibilities to achieve a look that he describes as “classic yet not outdated.” The collection illustrates a fusion of depth and lightness, reminiscent of Van Noten’s own philosophy. Klausner reflected on the importance of clothing in everyday life, stating, “I believe that the clothes we make have meaning only when they are actually worn in the world. If people wear them multiple times and find joy in them.”
Design elements in the fall/winter 2025 collection echo the essence of Dries Van Noten’s long history of vibrant fabrics and florals, while also introducing innovative interpretations of traditional apparel. The collection features luxurious velvet, jacquard textures, and vibrant decorative accents inspired by theatrical elements from the Palais Garnier, such as tassels and fringes. Meanwhile, the bold silhouettes, like asymmetrically draped dresses and coats enhanced with large collars and cuffs, represent Klausner’s exploration of contemporary tailoring.
After the show, Dries Van Noten was seen in high spirits, suggesting he is pleased with Klausner’s direction. He will continue his involvement with the brand as an advisor, signifying an ongoing relationship that prioritizes continuity while allowing Klausner’s artistic vision to flourish. “The seamless transition and brilliant future,” which Van Noten anticipates for Klausner, are already beginning to materialize, promising that the ethos of creating “garments to savor” will persist under the new leadership.
Overall, the fall/winter 2025 collection encapsulates a thoughtful homage to the past while forging a path forward, demonstrating a rich dialogue between tradition and innovation. As Dries Van Noten’s 40th anniversary approaches, the fashion world will be closely observing the evolution of this iconic brand under Klausner’s guidance.
Source: Noah Wire Services
