Dear iDEALS, design duo Filip Arickx and An Vandevorst, the names behind the label AF Vandevorst studied at the Flanders Fashion Institute in Antwerp, known for coming out with the most creative minds in fashion. They both worked for other designers before deciding to join forces and create A.F VANDEVORST.
Their presentations are known for the unique scenario based on their collection. Each time it becomes more and more cinematic.
I met Filip in Athens, while he was working backstage, one day before his show.
AF Vandevorst are based in Antwerp and show in Paris.
(portrait photo by Filep Motwary)
FilepMotwary: Although you know each other since 1987, it took you almost eleven years to join forces and launch A.F Vandevorst. Why?
A.F Vandevorst : We met each other at the fashion academy of Antwerp and sat in the same class for 4 years. After, we first wanted to gain as much experience as possible We both worked for other designers and brands and this for about 6 or 7 years.
FilepMotwary: Do you think that a brand is stronger when designed by four hands, instead of two?
A.F Vandevorst : A collection is never designed by only two hands and for us it was important to do something together.
FilepMotwary: When can a collection be called a success?
A.F Vandevorst : When the final result of a collection is equal to the initial idea + the evolution during the working process.
(Photo: Marcio Madeira)
FilepMotwary: Do you think it is correct being occupied by something that has no ending? Fashion for example?
A.F Vandevorst : That’s the challenge to start every season with an empty page!
FilepMotwary: When is the point you realize that an outfit is the “KEY” for each collection? Before, during or after the show?
A.F Vandevorst : Before during the working process of the collection!!!
FilepMotwary: How does the economy crisis touch you?
A.F Vandevorst : What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger!!!
We prefer to look for solutions rather than complaining.
FilepMotwary: What does the “Belgian” identity mean to you as designers? Why do you think Belgians make the difference?
A.F Vandevorst : As of our Belgian roots this will remain our identity
Due to strength, sense of realism and hardworking
FilepMotwary: Where there hard moments during the stardom of your label?
A.F Vandevorst : Of course there were, that’s part of the game. Finding creative solutions makes you stronger and keeps one awake!
FilepMotwary: Do you think it is important for a designer working for another’s brand before launching his/her own line? How did your collaborations with other labels help you before starting your mutual own?
A.F Vandevorst : For us it was important to gather skills. We think it’s interesting to see how other people work and to exchange ideas.
FilepMotwary: Does it bother you that the mainstream plagiarizes designer’s ideas? What is your opinion about designers collaborating with brands such as H&M ,TOP SHOP..?
A.F Vandevorst : No, that’s how the system works. Creating “once-in-a-lifetime-opportunities”. In the end it’s funny to see only for one season a “mainstream” Comme des garcons collection in the streets.
FilepMotwary: How different is fashion now compared to the past, when you first started. Where is fashion going?
A.F Vandevorst : As fashion is very contemporary it changes very fast. It’s a constant evolution. A mirror of society. It’s going faster and faster. Fashion is moving towards the future!
FilepMotwary: Your shows are extraordinary. You have a very, very strong presentation each time. For the music to the venue, the girls, the concept.. What is important in presenting one’s work? How long does it take you to find the concept of presentation and “put it down”.
A.F Vandevorst : Our presentation is the most important part in our creative process. We always have a story to tell and put a lot of energy in the way how to present it to the outside. Sometimes it comes in the beginning, sometimes in the middle and sometimes at the end.
FilepMotwary: What else do you want to achieve as designers?
A.F Vandevorst : Showing the complete A.F.VANDEVORST universe!!! (And there’s still a lot to tell)
CLICK HERE FOR KATHARINA PROSPEKT: THE RUSSIANS BY A.F VANDEVORST
Note: Copyrights under Filep Motwary and Un nOUveau iDEAL
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