Clashes. Dries Van Noten AW26

Julian Klausner’s latest collection for Dries Van Noten explored clashing styles as a means of finding one’s identity – “a moment of self-discovery.” At times, it seemed to be trying to say too much, particularly with the preppy uniforms and pixelated prints. Yet toward the end, the lineup revealed what Klausner does especially well at Dries: a kind of contemporary folklore, a patchwork of sensibilities and influences. These are clothes that roam freely between Paris, the Highlands, and Bhutan – the red mok-like wrap worn around a school jacket was a striking blend of cultures.

Dries has long been a master of unexpected combinations, and Julian proves himself an A+ student, treating his affection for eclecticism in an assemblage-like manner (Władysław Hasior’s work comes to my mind). Worth noting was a pair of collegiate jackets stitched seemingly at random with embroidered ribbons, in the way a young girl might scribble across her jeans. There’s something equally profound and joyfully carefree about the designer’s approach to personal style.