Antwerp is a city that shines bright like a diamond, both literally and figuratively. Known as the diamond capital of the world, Antwerp has a long history in the diamond trade, and you can explore the city’s diamond district to admire the world’s finest diamonds.
But diamonds aren’t the only thing that Antwerp is famous for. The city is also a hotbed for fashion design, with many avant-garde fashion designers calling Antwerp their home. From the iconic Antwerp Six to newer designers pushing boundaries with their futuristic designs, Antwerp is a must-visit destination for fashion lovers.
Start your fashion journey in Antwerp at the ModeMuseum, or MoMu, which is dedicated to showcasing the best of Belgian fashion design. The museum’s permanent collection includes over 25,000 items of clothing, accessories, and textiles from the 18th century to the present day, and regularly features temporary exhibitions from renowned designers.
The Flanders Fashion Institute, one of the most prestigious academies for designers, is located in the heart of the Nationalestraat. Many famous designer labels like Dries Van Noten, Martin Margiela, Anne Demeulemeester and Dirk Bikkembergs have emerged from this “Antwerp school” of fashion. Walter Van Beirendonck, the “Cultural Ambassador of Flanders,” is a notable name known for his unusual color combinations and strong graphic influence in his collections. He even designed the costumes for U2’s “PopMart Tour” in 1997.
For a taste of the future of fashion design, check out the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, which has produced many famous alumni, including the Antwerp Six. The academy’s annual fashion show, which takes place in June, is a must-see event for anyone interested in the cutting-edge of fashion design.
In between shopping and exploring the city’s fashion scene, don’t forget to admire Antwerp’s stunning architecture and rich history. From the Gothic beauty of the Cathedral of Our Lady to the modernist design of the Antwerp Central Station, the city is a blend of the old and new.
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