It’s about upgrading: A.F. Vandevorst Couture Fall 2017-18

“Being on the couture schedule gave us freedom. Because we are guests, we are not bound by the real rules of haute couture,” An Vandevorst said after showing the 2017 fall collection of A.F. Vandevorst, the brand she helms with husband Filip Arickx. “Freedom is to let go. Life’s treasures aren’t found in the material she leaves behind,
but in the memories she collects. All worldly containers of memories are merely to be beautiful reminders.”

“This Fall / Winter 2017-2018 collection is inspired by new nostalgia – shaped by the excitement of re-invention – Past tokens and heirlooms are refashioned and re-purposed – natural silhouettes gently embrace their new roles – We already have what we need, we must now look at it with different eyes.”

Traditional Nordic knit wool sweaters are worn in non-traditional ways to purposefully illuminate the details of all that is beyond first sight. Drama flirts with strict lines distracting us from a skin-tight layer underneath. High gloss vinyl reveals itself there and everywhere, suggestively reminding us that what we see is not always what we get.

Collection regenerates. Sheet becomes bow, printed furnishing becomes gown night black bags become evening-wear
closet bonanzas become turbans. Color and texture unfollow rules too, as faded leopard-print jacquards play with yellow snakeskin and fur coats mismatch sequinned boots. The AF Vandevorst universe is as linear as she is round, as strict as she is soft. Embroidery is to marry military army dances with velvet She is him, as much as she is their dichotomy.

Freedom is to let go…