In a decisive shift for one of Europe’s most revered fashion landscapes, the 2025 Belgian Fashion Awards saw Brussels-based designers seize the spotlight, signaling a powerful new chapter in the nation's creative legacy. With visionaries like Sonja Noël, Julian Klausner, and Tony Delcampe taking home top honors, the November 18th ceremony in Antwerp wasn't just a celebration of individual talent; it was a coronation of a new vanguard redefining luxury through inclusivity, sustainability, and a radically democratized approach to the industry.
The Night of the Capital
While Antwerp has long been considered the historic heart of Belgian avant-garde fashion, this year's awards marked a definitive triumph for the capital. The international jury recognized a wave of Brussels talent, awarding prizes that underscore the city's burgeoning influence. The wins for Sonja Noël, a foundational figure in the city's fashion scene, alongside contemporary forces like Julian Klausner and La Cambre's own Tony Delcampe, created an undeniable narrative: Brussels is no longer just a political capital but a creative one, pulsing with fresh energy and perspective.
The victories weren't isolated incidents but the culmination of a movement that has been quietly building, one that champions a different kind of luxury—less about rigid tradition and more about authentic, responsible, and socially conscious design.
An Awards Show, Reinvented
Perhaps the biggest story of the night was the evolution of the awards themselves. For the first time, the 2025 edition broke from convention by allowing brands to apply directly and, crucially, opening its doors to the public. This strategic democratization transformed the event from a cloistered industry affair into a vibrant, inclusive celebration of fashion.
New categories further broadened the scope, with awards like "Company of the Year" and a public-voted "Love Brand" award reflecting a more holistic view of the fashion ecosystem. As the Flanders District of Creativity jury noted, “At the Belgian Fashion Awards, that modesty is set aside to shine a light on what Belgian fashion truly represents: bold creativity, individuality, innovation, and sustainability.” This renewed mission makes the platform not just a stage for recognition but a launchpad for international careers and investment.
The New Face of Belgian Luxury
The winners and nominees paint a vivid picture of where Belgian fashion is headed. This is a generation that designs with purpose, seamlessly blending high aesthetics with deep-seated values.
Take the design duo Ester Manas and Balthazar Delepierre, whose brand ESTER MANAS has become a global benchmark for size-inclusive luxury. Their philosophy is a potent challenge to industry norms. “We offer a vision of fashion that is sustainable, inclusive, and celebratory of strong, joyful women,” they state, a mission evident in every garment. Their success, built on both sustainable materials and a revolutionary approach to sizing, exemplifies the new definition of luxury that the awards championed.
Meanwhile, the monumental success of Pieter Mulier at the helm of Alaïa continues to bring immense critical acclaim back to Belgium. His work proves that the nation's legacy for impeccable craftsmanship and innovative silhouettes is not only alive but thriving on the world's most prestigious stages.
Bridging Heritage and Horizon
This new wave doesn’t exist in a vacuum; it builds upon the foundations laid by legends. The influence of the original Antwerp Six remains palpable, with figures like Marina Yee continuing to innovate through her pioneering work in upcycling. Similarly, designers like Jean Paul Knott have long championed a philosophy that now feels more relevant than ever. “We prioritise longevity over fleeting trends, creating timeless, elegant pieces meant to last,” Knott explains, a sentiment that resonates deeply with today’s conscious consumer.
The brilliance of the current moment lies in this dialogue between past and future. The avant-garde spirit of the Six is being reinterpreted by designers like Meryll Rogge (Designer of the Year 2024), who honed her skills at Marc Jacobs and Dries Van Noten. It is a dynamic conversation where radical creativity meets commercial savvy, and heritage informs, rather than restricts, innovation.
Why Belgium Matters Now More Than Ever
The 2025 Belgian Fashion Awards were more than a local ceremony; they were a global statement. By championing designers who place inclusivity, sustainability, and authentic craftsmanship at the core of their brands, Belgium is positioning itself as a leader in the future of luxury.
The triumph of Brussels' designers is a testament to the power of a diverse, forward-thinking creative community. As the industry grapples with its environmental and social impact, the Belgian model—modest in demeanor but radical in its creativity—offers a compelling path forward. The world is watching, and Belgium, once again, is showing it the way.
