Who Is Julian Klausner? Meet Dries Van Noten’s New Creative Director
Dries Van Noten's new creative director will bring a transformative vision to the Belgian fashion house, blending tradition with innovation as he leads both men's and women's.
Almost nine months after announcing his retirement from his eponymous label, Dries Van Noten has named a new creative director. Julian Klausner, a longtime member of the Dries Van Noten team, will take the Belgian fashion house's leading post. This news comes nearly six month after the designer's final runway show.
Nearly six months after Dries Van Noten’s and nine months since the Belgian designer’s retirement announcement, the brand is ushering in a new chapter. Julian Klausner, a longtime member of the Dries Van Noten team, has been named the new creative director.
With prior experience at Thom Browne, Kenzo, and Maison Margiela, Klausner has been collaborating closely with Van Noten in Antwerp since 2018—a tenure that helped position him as a natural successor. Klausner studied at La Cambre/Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Arts Visuels in Brussels, earning both a Bachelor and Masters in Fashion Design upon graduating in 2016. His appointment aligns with the brand’s emphasis on continuity and evolution. As an internal hire, he combines a deep understanding of the brand's DNA with a refined perspective.
"The incomparable legacy that Dries is leaving behind is monumental, serving as an endless source of precious inspiration," Klausner said in a statement. "I am incredibly excited to lead the next seasons as we begin a new chapter for this house."
All eyes will be on Paris Fashion Week next March to witness the first of many collections that signal the future of this iconic fashion house: Klausner will present his first women's collection at Paris Fashion Week on March 5, 2025, with a men’s Winter 2025 lookbook set to release in January 2025. As Dries Van Noten the label embarks on this next phase, Klausner promises to honor the brand’s roots while exploring bold creative directions.
As a member of the iconic "Antwerp Six," Van Noten infused the runway with innovation and artistry, and he grew known for his vibrant prints, bold colors, and sophisticated craftsmanship. Since the Puig Group's majority stake acquisition in 2018, the brand has expanded into perfumes and beauty lines, enhancing its global presence. The transition to Klausner’s leadership underscores the house’s commitment to growth while preserving its unique identity.
"He is not only a talented designer but also the natural choice to take my place," Van Noten said in the release, reflecting on Klausner. "His deep understanding of the brand and its values will ensure a seamless transition and bright future."
See more in the announcement video below, by Lisa Immordino Vreeland.
