As a Brazilian, watching Fernanda Torres take home her Golden Globe was a moment of pride and joy. On January 5th, during the glittering 82nd edition of the Golden Globes, Torres not only captivated audiences with her talent but also with her striking red-carpet presence. Her black gown—modest in front, dramatic in back—turned heads and sparked curiosity about its creator, Olivier Theyskens.
Though his name may not be familiar to everyone, the Belgian designer has long been a hidden gem in the fashion world, celebrated by insiders for his ability to weave emotion, history, and innovation into every stitch. Celebrated by insiders for his ability to weave emotion, history, and modernity into every design, Theyskens is a shining example of Belgium's enduring influence on the global fashion stage.
A Lifelong Fascination with Fashion
Born in Brussels in 1977, Theyskens grew up surrounded by creativity. His passion for design led him to École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Visuels de la Cambre in 1994, but after two years, he left to chart his own course.
Theyskens first caught the attention of the high-fashion world in 1998, when Madonna wore one of his satin creations to the Oscars. This moment catapulted him onto the global stage, establishing his reputation as a daring and visionary talent. After that he has shaped many iconic fashion houses. At Rochas (2002), he redefined modern elegance; at Nina Ricci (2006), he infused youthful romance; and at Theory (2011), he bridged high fashion and practicality. Since 2016, he has focused on his own label while also leading Azzaro as creative director since 2020.
Discover Belgian Fashion at MoMu in Antwerp
If Olivier Theyskens has piqued your interest in Belgian fashion, there’s no better place to explore this rich heritage than Antwerp. The MoMu (ModeMuseum), founded in 2002, is a must-visit destination for fashion enthusiasts. This museum is dedicated to collecting, conserving, and showcasing Belgian contemporary fashion. Dive into exhibitions that celebrate designers like Theyskens and uncover the stories behind Belgium’s remarkable influence on the global fashion stage.
Make Antwerp your next destination and experience firsthand why this small country continues to punch above its weight in the world of couture and more.