‘The Six’ in the title refers to ‘The Six of Antwerp’ - Dirk Bikkembergs, Ann Demeulemeester, Walter Van Beirendonck, Dries Van Noten, Dirk Van Saene and Marina Yee - who have been renowned in the world of fashion since the beginning of the 1980s. The plus in the title refers to Martin Margiela on the one hand, because he is often bracketed together with ‘The Six’ and on the other hand, to the next generation of designers who have always added new aspects to the Antwerp identity. Finally, the plus also refers to photographers, stylists, graphic designers and make-up artists, who have only strengthened the impact of the Antwerp fashion image.
The Antwerp style is often described as a type of fashion with a strong feel for identity and tradition, as a conceptual type of fashion that can be interpreted as a reflection on the system of fashion that never gets lost in an abstract artistry though. The Antwerp fashion is praised by many journalists and buyers because of its unique balance between realism and creativity, which also explains the huge commercial success.
This is the first exhibition in Japan to explore the attraction and creativity of Antwerp fashionThe Tokyo show includes the latest graduate students’ works from the Academy show in 2008.

1.
Poster Academy fashion show 1990, graphic design: Anne Kurris (Photo: Ronald Stoops)

2.
6+. Antwerp Fashion in the Flemish Parliament (Brussels) 25/01/07-23/06/07 (Photo: Pat Verbruggen)

3.
6+. Antwerp Fashion in the Flemish Parliament (Brussels) 25/01/07-23/06/07 (Photo: Pat Verbruggen)


‘6+ Antwerp Fashion’ originally took place at ‘de Lokketten’ in Brussels and was initiated by MoMu - Fashion Museum Province of Antwerp and the Flemish Parliament in Brussels (25/1 - 23/6/2007). The exhibition and accompanying catalogue were realized with the generous support of the City of Antwerp and the Port of Antwerp.