Dutch designer, Iris van Herpen is a talent to watch out for with her avant-garde take on fashion. In 2006, Herpen graduated from the ArtEZ Institute of Arts in Arnhem where she later completed internships at Claudy Jongstra, Amsterdam and Alexander McQueen, London.
Viewing her collections, there is a clear link that the late Alexander McQueen has influenced Herpen in her cutting edge creations which can be seen throughout her work. Iris van Herpen is about innovation and her latest collection, "Escapism Couture" shows what 'Couture' should really be about: dreams/visions. Not only is this her second three dimensional printed collection after "Crystallization", but her digital fantasies have been made into reality, constantly challenging the boundaries between art and fashion. Iris van Herpen's work mingles nature's beauty of wild bird shapes and clouds alongside ominous, dark, heavy looking armour which surprisingly works well together. The majority of her creations scream spiral formations, interlocking weaves and metallic colours although, Herpen proves that she is still capable of designing more wearable garments for her viewers by sticking to a minimalistic look.
"For me, fashion is an expression of art that is very closely related to me and to my body. I see it as my expression of identity combined with desire, moods and cultural setting.
In all my work I try to make clear that fashion is an artistic expression, showing and wearing art, and not just a functional and devoid of content or commercial tool. With my work I intend to show that fashion can certainly have an added value to the world, that it is timeless and that its consumption can be less important then its beginning. Wearing clothing can create a very exciting and imperative form of self-expression. 'Form follows function' is not a slogan with which I concur. On the contrary, I find that forms complement and change the body and thus the emotion. Movement, so essential to and in the body, is just as important in my work. By bringing form, structure and materials together in a new manner, I try to suggest and realize optimal tension and movement.”
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