Iris Van Herpen

Iris van Herpen is a Dutch fashion designer known for her innovative and experimental approach to haute couture. She established her eponymous brand in 2007, after graduating from the ArtEZ Institute of the Arts in the Netherlands. Van Herpen's designs are characterized by their fusion of technology, science, and art, often incorporating unconventional materials and pushing the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship.

In 2010, Van Herpen presented the first-ever 3D-printed dress at Amsterdam Fashion Week, a groundbreaking moment that showcased her commitment to merging contemporary technology with historic skills and know-how. This pioneering spirit has been recognized by the fashion industry, with Van Herpen being invited to join the exclusive Chambre Syndicale de Haute Couture in 2012.

Throughout her career, Van Herpen has collaborated with various artists, architects, and scientists, resulting in unique and thought-provoking collections. Her work often draws inspiration from the natural world, exploring patterns, textures, and forms found in nature, such as water, human skeletons, and rock formations. This fascination with the natural world is evident in her use of materials like borosilicate glass, mylar film, polyurethane, and thermo-plaster polymers, which she skillfully transforms into sculptural, otherworldly garments.

Van Herpen's designs have been exhibited in prestigious museums worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and the Palais de Tokyo in Paris. Her work has also been featured in numerous books and exhibitions, solidifying her reputation as a visionary in the world of fashion.