Dries Van Noten has found himself a successor in Julian Klausner, who today has been announced as creative director of the Antwerp-based label. In March, Noten sent shockwaves through the fashion industry, as he took to Instagram to announce his retirement. After almost four whole decades in the business, the celebrated designer presented his “perfection” of a swansong collection during the Spring 2025 season of Menswear Paris Fashion Week. Fast forward to December 2025 and the label is heading in the new year with a new designer at the helm. I am beyond thrilled to oversee the upcoming seasons as we begin the next chapter for this house. The incomparable legacy that Dries is leaving behind is monumental, serving as an endless source of precious inspiration. I look forward to embarking on new ambitious challenges while honoring the heritage we all cherish,” said Klauser in a statement.
Klauser will be responsible for both the women’s and men’s collections. The 33-year-old Belgian designer has worked with Dries Van Noten on womenswear since 2018, and studied at the La Cambre in Brussels. Klauser will unveil his debut menswear offering with a lookbook in January, and is set to stage his first runway showcase as Dries Van Noten creative director during the Fall 2025 season of Paris Fashion Week in March.
Julian Klausner Appointed Creative Director of Dries Van Noten:
Read below the reactions of theFashionSpot’s forum members:
“Wish the best for him! Hope he keeps Dries’ legacy with grace.” [thiago]
“Can’t wait for his menswear lookbook in January! Good luck!” [Olaffo]
“Good choice I think. Dries is still involved in the company so it’s good to have someone who is not too much of personality to continue the legacy. I really did not expect a known designer to come from outside.” [Lola701]
“I’m digging this. No drama, no nonsense, and logical transition. I wonder if the Spring 2025 ‘studio’ collection was his final audition necessary to convince the key stakeholders. Quite curious to see what he will bring to menswear.” [j02215]
“A step in the right direction.” [helmutnotdead]
Share your own thoughts on Julian Klausner becoming Dries Van Noten creative director, here.
