Kris Van Assche Revives His Namesake Label After a Decade-Long Hiatus, Embracing Sustainable Production

Belgian designer Kris Van Assche is making a significant return to the fashion world with the relaunch of his namesake label, KRISVANASSCHE, slated for mid-September. This marks over a decade since the brand was initially put on pause in 2015, a period during which Van Assche cemented his reputation at prominent luxury houses. The announcement, revealed last week in an interview with WWD (Women's Wear Daily), a leading industry publication, signals the designer's re-entry into the fashion arena with his signature modern, tailored aesthetic, now underscored by a pronounced commitment to conscious production practices.

Van Assche, who previously helmed Dior Homme from 2007 to 2018 and subsequently served as Creative Director at Berluti from 2018 to 2021, expressed his readiness for this deeply personal fashion endeavor. In an Instagram post, he articulated that following his impactful tenures at these esteemed brands and his subsequent explorations into design objects for Serax, bronze sculptures with Downtown Gallery, and collaborations with sportswear brand Anta and heritage label Fred Perry, the timing felt opportune for a return to a profoundly personal expression of fashion. This period of diverse creative output has evidently informed his renewed vision for KRISVANASSCHE.

The forthcoming collection, as detailed by WWD, is expected to comprise approximately 40 distinct styles. This curated selection will encompass a range of essential garments, including jackets, shirts, trousers, skirts, dresses, and knitwear, thoughtfully designed for both men's and women's collections. A key element of this relaunch is Van Assche's emphasis on utilizing high-quality deadstock fabrics. This choice not only speaks to a commitment to sustainability and reducing textile waste but also ensures a unique character for each piece, as deadstock materials are often limited in quantity. Furthermore, the production will be managed in smaller, more controlled quantities, aligning with this ethos of mindful consumption and artisanal quality.

Kris Van Assche originally placed his label on hiatus in 2015 to fully dedicate himself to his demanding role as the creative director of Dior Homme, a position he held for over a decade and where he significantly shaped the brand's contemporary menswear identity. Following his impactful tenure at Dior, Van Assche transitioned to Berluti, succeeding the acclaimed Haider Ackermann. His recent creative ventures have extended beyond apparel, showcasing his versatility with a debut at Milan Design Week in 2026, which featured a collection of design objects for Serax and a series of striking bronze sculptures. The first collection under the revived KRISVANASSCHE label is anticipated to be available for purchase on the official Kris Van Assche web store in mid-to-late September, marking a highly anticipated moment for fashion enthusiasts.