Designed to make a statement

In collaboration with Eyequote, Van der Steen created a photographic series celebrating Dutch women across generations, each surrounded by the raw beauty of the Dutch landscape. Every portrait captures authentic strength, timeless beauty, and unapologetic individuality. This project embodies my vision: to empower women through designs that honour their essence and amplify their voice.​

Set within the serene grandeur of the Garnizoenskerk in Ravenstein, this exhibition marked a compelling collaboration between VAN DER STEEN and visual artist Jacques Versteeg — known for his abstract, emotionally charged work.

Versteeg’s layered, delicate paintings — tactile and intense — entered into a silent, powerful dialogue with my sculptural couture. In this sacred space, garments became autonomous forms: corset-bustiers suspended like sculptures, commanding the room not just with silhouette, but with spirit.

Carefully curated, each composition became a study in contrast and connection — between softness and strength, body and canvas, tradition and rebellion. A moment where fashion did not follow art, but conversed with it.

To exhibit at Island Gallery is to step into a world where art, space and object are in perfect conversation. This remarkable gallery offers presence. Intention. Stillness.

Here, VAN DER STEEN corset-bustiers take on a new dimension. Sculptural forms placed among contemporary artworks and collectible design pieces.

The garments are positioned like works of art. Their curves and construction echo the lines of the architecture. They are form, story, structure.​​

For the Great Church of Oss, I was commissioned to create a couture design for the Holy Virgin Mary, a contemporary interpretation of a timeless icon.

The design blends deep, resonant colours with sculptural draping and an origami-inspired cloak. Drawing the eye towards her vivid presence, a colourful focal point amidst silence and stone.

Through form, texture and tone, I sought to reclaim her space: not as a relic of the past, but as a powerful, radiant figure surrounded by spiritual art.

For Fashion Days Oss, I had the privilege of developing the creative concept and visual identity for this biannual event, where fashion and hospitality seamlessly intertwine. My vision brought together local flair, bold aesthetics in collaboration with Eyequote.

Curated by Katja Rodenburg, A Fashion Pilgrimage showcased my designs as part of a narrative exploring craftsmanship, self-expression and femininity. The exhibition was officially opened by Geert de Rooij, co-founder of the iconic fashion label The People of the Labyrinths.

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