When Iris Van Herpen immerses us into the ocean of the future

Camz
Sep 6
2 min read

Each season, Iris Van Herpen reminds us that she is not just a designer, but a true visionary. With her new collection Sympoiesis, she takes us on a deep dive into an ocean of emotions, innovations, and poetry.

This time, the ocean is more than just a backdrop of inspiration: it becomes an invitation to reflect on our place in the world and the way we interact with nature.

“Sympoiesis” speaks of co-creation, of symbiosis between living beings and their environment. And this is felt from the very first look: silhouettes that seem to float, almost otherworldly, like marine creatures half-human, half-algae.

The fabrics embrace the body with a fluidity reminiscent of ocean currents. The 3D techniques used on certain pieces give the impression that the dresses are breathing, almost moving on their own. The colors shift between deep blues, pearly beiges, and translucent reflections… subtle yet visually striking.

What fascinates me most about Iris is her ability to merge traditional haute couture with cutting-edge technologies. She works at the crossroads of atelier and laboratory, of art and science. She doesn’t simply create garments; she reinvents the way we think about the body, materials, and movement.

But Sympoiesis goes further than a stylistic exercise. Behind these futuristic silhouettes lies a very contemporary message: one of sustainability and interconnectedness. Iris draws inspiration from biodesign, an approach that explores how living organisms can inspire—or even directly contribute to—the creation of tomorrow’s materials. In a world where fashion is often criticized for its ecological impact, this perspective is refreshing. It opens the door to a future where creativity and environmental awareness walk hand in hand.

Leaving the show, you don’t just feel like dressing differently—you feel like living differently. You start to dream of a wardrobe that doesn’t pollute, that doesn’t destroy, but instead creates a bond between us and our planet.

And that, to me, is the true strength of this collection: it makes us dream while carrying meaning. A form of luxury that goes beyond a price tag or a logo; towards an idea, a vision, a sensation.