Belgian designer Walter Van Beirendonck founded his eponymous luxury menswear label in 1983. Walter Van Beirendonck was a part of the famous Antwerp Six, a group of Belgian designers who are seen as progressing Antwerp as one of the world centres for fashion during the 1980’s. From this, Walter Van Beirendonck became internationally recognised for his unconventional, innovative designs which are continued to this day.
Drawing inspiration from art, literature and nature, Walter Van Beirendonck produces idiosyncratic menswear collections which have challenged expectations since the brand’s beginnings. At the start of Van Beirendonck’s career, menswear was very much still focused on classic silhouettes and traditional suiting and separates. Simple wool, tweed and cotton made up most collections and a conventional idea of masculinity was overwhelmingly offered. With Walter Van Beirendonck’s appearance on the scene, things were disrupted, providing a deconstruction of traditional notions of men’s fashion.
Through contemporary fabrics, clashing colour combinations and exaggerated proportions, Walter Van Beirendonck offers a modern outlook towards menswear. There is a distinctive punk rock influence amongst designs, met with sharp cuts and experimental textures. Daring graphics, irreverent slogans and extravagant details are seen across t-shirts, knitwear and outerwear. From patterned flare trousers and high-shine jumpers to multicoloured fur coats and ruffle jackets, Walter Van Beirendonck is lively and exciting, pushing boundaries and offering an alternative to traditional styles.
Collections from Walter Van Beirendonck can be accessed online via Farfetch.