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Walter van Beirendonck SS24 DAWLEETOO

Antwerp based designer, Walter van Beirendonck unveils his latest menswear collection, DAWLEETOO, offering a glimpse into his creative process and exploration of technologies. In his own words, he describes the development of the collection as a visual representation of his thoughts and ideas, with drawings and collages bringing his concepts to life. With a keen interest in embracing new technologies, Van Beirendonck delves into the realm of accelerated artificial intelligence, an experience he describes as both trippy and fascinating.

The concept behind Walter van Beirendonck's DAWLEETOO S/S24

During this research, Van Beirendonck stumbled upon intriguing images of DAWLEETOO, a city or perhaps a fabricated place that captivated his imagination. The distinction between reality and fiction became blurred as simulated visuals inundated his feed. This experience left him pondering the impact of technology on our perception of truth. Questions arose: What is real and what is surreal? The designer acknowledges feeling a mixture of shock and curiosity, compelled to explore further.

With his thought-provoking collection, Walter Van Beirendonck invites us into the realm of DAWLEETOO. It is a place where art, technology, and social reflection intertwine, igniting conversations about our collective journey as humanity navigates uncharted territories. The designer's message is clear: as we venture forth into the unknown, let us safeguard our core values while embracing the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. DAWLEETOO beckons us to join this cosmic exploration and to safeguard our humanity as we forge ahead into the future.

Amidst a rapidly transforming world driven by technological advancements, Van Beirendonck found inspiration in this paradoxical landscape. To convey his vision, he created an "alien alphabet," an artistic manifestation that speaks to the fusion of human and machine. This new language becomes an integral part of the DAWLEETOO collection, evoking a sense of otherworldliness.

DAWLEETOO Details

Drawing from his affinity for theatrical costumes and outspoken art, Walter Van Beirendonck infuses DAWLEETOO with visual contrasts and the boundless possibilities unleashed by technology. The collection juxtaposes hard materials as protective covers with soft, almost vulnerable, one-pieces underneath. Volumes collide, clash, and reconnect with slim fits, while transparency coexists with elements of safeguarding. Monochrome palettes harmonize with bi-color combinations, notably the red-white and black-yellow pairings that evoke ancestral and universal symbolism.

Through graphic warning signs integrated into his designs, Van Beirendonck demands attention, calling upon us to recognize our roles as explorers of a new world and unwitting subjects of societal experiments. In the face of hyper-myths and modern-day fairy tales, he urges us, as cosmic outsiders, to unite. Dreaming big is encouraged, but the preservation of our shared humanity remains paramount.

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