Julian Klausner has been appointed as the new creative director of Dries Van Noten, marking a new chapter for the renowned Belgian fashion house. The appointment comes five months after founder Dries Van Noten shocked the industry by stepping down.
Klausner, a 33-year-old Belgian designer, joined Dries Van Noten in 2018 and has been an integral part of the brand’s design team. His appointment signals a vote for continuity, rather than a dramatic change in direction. With a master’s degree from La Cambre, a prestigious visual arts school in Brussels, Klausner brings a fresh perspective while maintaining a deep understanding of the brand’s heritage.
The fashion industry is currently experiencing a period of creative upheaval, and Klausner is one of eight designers making their debut at global brands in 2025. This unprecedented number of new hires reflects the industry’s struggle with slowing consumer sales and the need for fresh creative voices.
Klausner’s relative anonymity in the fashion world stands in stark contrast to the industry’s typical preference for high-profile appointments. He lacks a significant social media presence and is not known for celebrity associations. Instead, his strength lies in his intimate knowledge of the Dries Van Noten brand and his relationships with the existing design team.
Marc Puig, CEO of the Spanish group that owns Dries Van Noten, expressed confidence in Klausner’s ability to preserve the essence of the brand while moving it forward. “Julian’s understanding of the brand’s heritage, forged through his years with Dries, makes him uniquely suited for this role,” Puig said.
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Dries Van Noten himself has given his full support to Klausner’s appointment. “He is not only a talented designer, but also a clear choice to take over after my departure,” Van Noten said. This endorsement should allay fears that the brand might drastically change its aesthetic under new leadership.
Julian Klausner’s vision for Dries Van Noten emphasizes the brand’s commitment to individuality and rich textures. “For me, Dries Van Noten represents the richness of life’s textures, where each garment tells a story of individuality,” he explained. This philosophy aligns closely with the brand’s established identity, known for its relaxed silhouettes and bold color and print combinations.
Klausner’s debut collection will be shown during Paris Fashion Week in February. This show will be the first true test of Klausner’s ability to balance the brand’s cherished heritage with his own creative vision.
Klausner’s background includes internships at prestigious fashion houses such as Thom Browne, Kenzo and Maison Margiela. His experience with these diverse brands has likely contributed to his well-rounded approach to design.
As Klausner steps into his new role, he faces the challenge of maintaining the loyal customer base that Dries Van Noten has cultivated over the decades. The brand’s distinctive identity, characterized by dignified clothing with exotic details, has been a cornerstone of its success.
The transition at Dries Van Noten reflects a broader trend in the fashion industry, as heritage brands seek to balance their established identities with the need for innovation. Julian Klausner’s appointment represents a thoughtful approach to this challenge, prioritizing a deep understanding of the brand’s DNA over headline-grabbing celebrity appointments.
