Ann Demeulemeester
Source: Ann Demeulemeester
Brand Overview
The Ann Demeulemeester label holds a prominent legacy in the fashion world. Defined by its monochromatic, edgy, and romantic pieces, the brand’s founder and name holder is a fashion pioneer and visionary, well-known in her early days for her artistic approach to tailoring. Founded alongside her husband and creative partner, Ann Demeulemeester created a brand that blends simple silhouettes with grunge details, while redefining androgynous styles. Recent collections display cohesive designs in a black-and-white palette, a signature in many of Demeulemeester’s work. With stores worldwide, the brand provides elegance and comfort in its sleek and timeless designs.
Designer Bio
Belgian-born Ann Demeulemeester broke through London fashion week, attending the 1986 show as part of the “Antwerp Six.” Demeulemeester established herself as an artist through her somewhat gothic, deconstructed designs. She took risks meshing men’s and women’s fashion on runways, developing her poetic style through loose-fitting garments, structured tailoring, and reworked details. Demeulemeester has created a design aesthetic that refrains from subjecting to modern trends and instead develops as a story—crafting well-thought-out and intricate designs in classic and simple shapes, made for individuals seeking unique yet gritty basics.
Demeulemeester stepped down from her label in 2013, passing its ownership on to Antonoli in 2020. She is still very involved with the brand, though, stepping away from fashion to focus on ceramics and homeware. Ludovic de Saint Sernin is the current art director of the Ann Demeulemeester label, continuing Ann’s legacy and preserving her unique aesthetic while placing his own flare into designs. Ann’s impact on fashion will continue to thrive through the gothic 90s resurgence, unisex styles, and longevity of her designs.
Ann Demeulemeester by Patrick Robyn
“I guess I never analyzed fashion…what I was doing was focusing on what I could add that was not there, what was my voice in fashion and what I could give.”
Inspiration
“For me, Gothic is something from my youth, when I had a heavy metal phase...to me, black is perfect. You can fill it with the emotion you want to express. My work has always been about authentic feeling, and I think we live in a time where we need that.”
Collection/Designer Career Highlights
This graphic t-shirt is simple, yet sure to bring a statement to a casual outfit. The Ann Demeulemeester brand specializes in creating basics with a flair—staying true to Ann’s passion and design vision.
As a symbol of Ann’s impeccable tailoring, these carpenter-style pants are perfectly slouchy. They are made out of 100% waxed cotton, promising maximum comfort and mobility.
A fresh and cool take on a wardrobe staple, this jacket is made out of waxed denim giving it an elevated shine.
A loose, distressed knit is seen throughout Ann’s archives. This updated addition is perfect for layering or wearing alone to show some skin.
The Ann Demeulemeester brand creates beautiful sterling silver pieces using edgy details, chain links, and charms. This drop charm necklace will provide the perfect grunge accessory for any look.
A sleek, staple everyday boot is a necessity for an Ann Demeulemeester runway. This pair, made in dusty leather with waxed laces will pair well with just about anything.