Slowly but surely, An Vandevorst and Filip Arickx, the duo that forms A.F. Vandevorst, construct a universe between rock energy and ambiance of another time, between the severity of couture blended with deconstruction à la Joseph Beuys. Their paths crossed in 1987 on the benches of the Royal Academy of Antwerp. An proved to have a strong artistic sensibility expressed through her approach to her incredible garments. Filip chose to pursue fashion for the happiness and fun that it produces. After graduating in 1991, both of them went their separate ways. An became the assistant of Dries Van Noten. Filip assisted Dirk Bikkembergs. It wasn't until 1998 that they decided to combine their imaginations in order to create a four handed womenswear collection. Since then, having assured exterior collaborations (Ruffo Research in Spring/Summer 2000, and Autumn/Winter 2000-2001, and many costume creations for opera and theatre), the duo tirelessly pursued a vision of clothing based not only on the appearance but also what is going on on the inside : emotionally and constructionally.
For Autumn/Winter 2005-2006, A.F. Vandevorst is running with the story of a woman who, after having lived a long time outside of civilization, returns to urban life. This idea gave birth to a collection that gives the impression of worlds colliding, mixing raw and sophisticated materials, opposing fluid to structured lines, incorporating embroideries and prints.