Master the Art of the Print
Dries Van Noten is, above all, a master of prints. His collections are famous for their sophisticated and often unexpected interplay of patterns. Think rich florals laid over geometric shapes, ethnic-inspired motifs alongside abstract brushstrokes, and digital
manipulations that create something entirely new. To capture this spirit, stop thinking of prints as standalone statements and start seeing them as conversational partners. The key is to find a common thread—often a color—that ties two seemingly clashing patterns together. Pair a bold floral skirt with a subtly striped blouse, or a geometric top with an ikat-print jacket. The goal isn't chaos, but a meticulously composed harmony that looks effortless and deeply personal.
Embrace 'Impossible' Color Pairings
Van Noten's color palettes are legendary for their ability to combine shades that, in theory, shouldn't work. He frequently juxtaposes high-saturation tertiary colors with muted, grounding tones, creating a chromatic tension that is both arresting and beautiful. Imagine pairing a deep petrol blue with a sharp chartreuse, or a rich aubergine with a warm ochre yellow. To channel this, step away from easy neutrals. Look for that one challenging color in your closet—that mustard sweater or lavender blouse—and intentionally pair it with something unexpected. The result is a look that feels intelligent and emotionally resonant, moving beyond simple matching to create a mood.
Fall in Love with Fabrics
In the world of Dries Van Noten, texture is as important as color and print. His work is a testament to a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and materials, featuring luxurious layers of silk, brocade, velvet, and intricately engineered embroidery. He tells stories through the feel of a garment. Building a wardrobe in his spirit means prioritizing material integrity. When you shop, run your hands over things. Seek out the richness of a jacquard, the weight of a good wool, or the fluid movement of silk crepe de Chine. Mix these textures freely. A velvet blazer with worn-in jeans or a silk camisole under a chunky knit captures this blend of the everyday and the exquisite.
Find Beauty in the Imperfect
There's a romantic, slightly off-kilter beauty to Van Noten's designs. His silhouettes often feature controlled volume and a nuanced understanding of proportion rather than tight, restrictive fits. He finds beauty in the imperfect, once photographing flowers for a collection at the end of their season, complete with black spots and mildew, because it gave them reality. This translates to a wardrobe that values character over perfection. Don't be afraid of a slightly oversized coat, a sleeve that's a bit too long, or layering in a way that feels slightly undone. This is about clothes that have life and personality, not stiff, formal costumes.
Mix High with Low, Casual with Ornate
A core tenet of the Van Noten philosophy is the effortless mix of casual, hardworking pieces with the ornate and special. He has a unique ability to make an embroidered jacket look perfectly at home with a simple pair of trousers, or a dazzling sequin skirt feel approachable with a plain grey t-shirt. This is perhaps the most accessible principle to adopt. Don't save your best pieces for a special occasion. Wear that embellished top to a casual brunch. Throw a denim jacket over a silk dress. This juxtaposition elevates the everyday and makes the exquisite feel wearable. It’s about creating a personal uniform that is both functional and beautiful.
Build a Collection, Not a Wardrobe
Van Noten famously eschews advertising and the breakneck pace of trends. His clothes are designed to be timeless, to be cherished and kept for years, becoming part of the wearer's life story. Building a wardrobe in his spirit means adopting a slower, more thoughtful approach to consumption. Instead of chasing what's new for the season, focus on collecting pieces that you truly love. These are garments that speak to you, that fit into the larger narrative of your personal style. They are the building blocks of a permanent wardrobe, things that work with what you already own and will continue to do so in five years. It's about buying less, but buying with love and intention.
