Delft Blue to Denim Blue – Contemporary Dutch Fashion

Author: Anneke Smelik

In March 2017 the book Delft Blue to Denim Blue was officially published. Lector Fashion of the ArtEZ University of the Arts, and researcher at the Centre of Expertise Future Makers Daniëlle Bruggeman has contributed to this book that has been edited by anneke Smelik.

 

Contemporary fashion in the Netherlands shows a unique mix of playful individualism, conceptual strength, and organisational innovation. Delft Blue to Denim Blue maps the landscape of Dutch fashion in all its rich variety and complexity. Luxuriously illustrated in colour, the book uncovers the cultural roots of Dutch fashion in a globalized context. The authors debunk myths surrounding Dutch fashion, dig up new facts and stories, and explore the creative relation of fashion design to cultural heritage. Written by experts in the field, Delft Blue to Denim Blue gives a rich overview of designers, ranging from G-Star jeans, and affordable retailer C&A, to a savvy brand like Vanilia, and from the famous designer duo Viktor&Rolf to a futuristic designer like Iris van Herpen. The book assesses the diversity of Dutch fashion designers, firms and brands in their historical and cultural contexts.