Ann Demeulemeester Belgian fashion designer Date of Birth: 29.12.1959 Country: Belgium

Biography of Ann Demeulemeester

Born in 1959 in the town of Waregem, Belgium, Ann Demeulemeester is a Belgian fashion designer and the founder of her own eponymous brand. She studied fashion at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, graduating in 1981 as part of the renowned group known as the "Antwerp Six," which included Walter van Beirendonck, Dries Van Noten, Dirk Van Saene, Marina Yee, and Dirk Bikkembergs.

After completing her education, Demeulemeester started freelancing as a clothing designer for international ready-to-wear collections. In 1982, she received the prestigious Golden Spindle Award in Belgium. Two years later, she established her own label and showcased her first autumn-winter collections. In 1992, Demeulemeester presented her first women's clothing collection in Paris, and four years later, she expanded her brand to include menswear.

Demeulemeester, along with her husband, photographer Patrick Robyn, and their son Victor Robyn, resides in a house designed by the renowned architect Le Corbusier in Antwerp. In 1999, she opened her first flagship store in Antwerp, and today her collections, which also include a successful line of footwear and accessories, are sold in more than 30 countries worldwide. In 2000, Demeulemeester was honored as an Honorary Citizen of her hometown, Waregem.

Known for her unconventional style and attention to detail, Demeulemeester is an artist who challenges stereotypes by avoiding patterns and colors in her designs. She often combines strict silhouettes with soft draping and fabrics reminiscent of antiquity. Worn-out fabrics with nostalgically frayed edges are somehow blended with structured coats. Long coats and dresses have become her signature style, as well as suspender vests cleverly disguised as blouse ties. Skirts and trousers reveal the pelvic bones, adding a touch of sensuality. Her leather garments and collections inspired by 70s rock stars are clearly influenced by strong women in the world of rock music, such as Patti Smith and Janis Joplin. Additionally, Demeulemeester skillfully incorporates delicate knits, reminiscent of spiderwebs, into her creations.