Renowned fashion house WALTER VAN BEIRENDONCK presented its Spring Summer 2024 Men’s Collection, entitled Dawleetoo, on June 21st, during the ongoing Paris Fashion Week. The visionary designer, known for his unwavering thirst for knowledge, embraces the rapid advancements in technology without hesitation. However, he quickly realized that conducting research in the age of accelerated artificial intelligence is a mind-bending experience unlike any other. The remarkable collection was inspired by the captivating online images of Dawleetoo. The designer pondered whether this enigmatic entity was a long-lost city hidden in the depths of time or an illusion skillfully created by a creative mind. Distinguishing between reality and fiction became an arduous task, as the hazy boundaries blurred the line between what was authentic and what was illusory. The profound surprise stimulated the designer’s insatiable desire to discover the truth. In a world where machines propel us at an unprecedented rate into uncharted territories, the collection reflects the ever-changing landscape that surrounds us. At times, it feels as if we are unwitting participants in a massive experiment, functioning as unwitting test subjects. In response to this dynamic environment, the designer created an alien alphabet consisting of pictographic characters for a unique language. With this endeavor the designer aims to bridge the gap between our physical reality and the virtual worlds we currently inhabit.
SPRING SUMMER 2024 COLLECTIONS
The collection captures a mesmerizing interplay of contrasting elements. The materials utilized for the covers exude strength and resilience, commanding attention. This surface, however, conceals a softer, more delicate core that embodies the delicate balance between grandeur and simplicity. It investigates the relationship between voluminous forms and minimalist designs, juxtaposing the concepts of protection and transparency. The color palette alternates between monochromatic and bichromatic schemes, with striking color pairings such as red/white and black/yellow. These choices evoke a sense of caution, urging us to pay close attention to our surroundings. As unwitting guinea pigs and explorers of a new world, we are surrounded by an abundance of hyper-myths and contemporary fairy tales. It is essential that we navigate this complex landscape with unwavering discernment, discerning truth from illusion with care. The designer extends an invitation for unity, encouraging us to dream big while preserving our humanity. We are on the verge of a new era in which the lines between reality and fantasy become increasingly blurred. This season Walter Van Beirendonck explores an astonishing realm where endless possibilities exist and the pursuit of knowledge has no bounds.
Discover every look from the Walter Van Beirendonck Spring Summer Men’s Collection in the gallery below: