Antwerp as a Laboratory of Fashion: a city where ideas take shape

Antwerp is widely known as a laboratory of fashion: a place where creativity, experimentation and entrepreneurship come together. The city offers space for designers to explore new ideas, develop their own voice and translate creativity into sustainable businesses. 

The immersive project The Triangle, presented at the Antwerp.Fashion Festival, reflects that spirit. It brought together three designers with strong ties to Antwerp: Walter Van Beirendonck, Jan-Jan Van Essche and Bertony da Silva (Arte).

Each of them represents a different generation and approach to fashion, yet they share a common ground: Antwerp as a place to experiment, grow and connect with the world.

What makes Antwerp unique is not just its reputation, but its ecosystem. Designers, entrepreneurs, schools and creatives continuously influence each other. This creates a dynamic environment where new ideas can develop into strong concepts and brands. 

The Triangle visualises exactly that. The project is not just about fashion as a product, but about fashion as a process — a dialogue between creativity, identity and innovation. 

Walter Van Beirendonck

Walter Van Beirendonck is a key figure in Antwerp’s fashion story. His work is bold, expressive and experimental. He shows how fashion can be a platform to explore ideas and challenge conventions. 

Jan-Jan Van Essche 

Jan-Jan Van Essche approaches fashion from a different angle. His designs are timeless and rooted in craftsmanship and cultural exchange. He illustrates how a clear vision and strong identity can lead to a sustainable and meaningful brand. 

Bertony da Silva (Arte) 

With Arte, Bertony da Silva connects fashion, art and community. His brand reflects a contemporary approach to entrepreneurship, combining creativity with a strong connection to culture and audience. He shows how Antwerp-based brands can resonate internationally.

Antwerp shows that entrepreneurship and creativity go hand in hand. The city provides a fertile ground to test ideas and grow into an international player.

The Triangle

Directed by Javier Barcala
Produced by SUPERSAUCE
DOPs: Sander Vandenbroucke + Ivo Nelis
Editor + Sound Designer: Louis Deruddere
Color Grade: Xavier Dockx
AC: Boris Godfroid
Sound Recording: Kris Wouters
Executive Producers: Christophe Coppens & Javier Barcala

Special thanks to Walter Van Beirendonck, Jan-Jan Van Essche, Bertony Da Silva, Dirk Van Saene, Pietro Celestina, Mira Cam, Sophie Pay, Elke Timmerman, Miet Defillet, Katrien Huygens, Stefan Ceunen and the entire team at Antwerp Fashion Festival.