After dedicating its focus on the development of its retail stores, the Dirk Bikkembergs brand is now shifting gears to diversify its product offerings by expanding its licenses. In an effort to elevate the brand to new heights, designer Dirk Bikkembergs has been expanding his product range and injecting fresh energy into his boutique network. To achieve this goal, the luxury brand has entered into multiple partnerships and collaborations.
One of these collaborations is with Tichebox, a travel company based in Bologna that specializes in leather goods. Tichebox will work on the production of leather bags and accessories for Dirk Bikkembergs. The agreement between the two entities will last for four years and will result in a collection of briefcases, travel bags, and small leather goods. However, this unique line will only be available from June 2015, and its first collection will be unveiled in January next year during Milan Fashion Week.
Continuing its development, Dirk Bikkembergs is also expected to establish a new agreement with Canepa, a weaver based in Como known for its exceptional silk fabrics. Together, these two brands will create and distribute a line of fabrics for both men and women, including scarves and shawls.
Dirk Bikkembergs, a brand that thrives on challenges, has an impressive background. Born to a German mother and a Belgian father, Dirk Bikkembergs graduated from the prestigious Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp in 1982. He gained recognition through the “Antwerp Six,” an association of alumni that propelled Antwerp to become a renowned fashion destination. In 1985, Bikkembergs won the Golden Spindle award for “Best Young Designer.” He then went on to release his first shoe collection in 1986, followed by his first ready-to-wear lines for men and women in subsequent years.
Embracing new challenges, Bikkembergs opened showrooms in Paris and Milan in 1987. In 2000, he won the Moet & Chandon “Spirit of the Century” award and became the official stylist for F.C. Internazionale Milan, a top Italian football club. Demonstrating his passion for football, Bikkembergs acquired the F.C. Bikkembergs Fossombrone team in 2005, leading to the birth of the Bikkembergs Sport Football line. In addition, he launched the first professional football shoe designed by a fashion designer.
Thanks to his talent and achievements, Dirk Bikkembergs has accumulated numerous awards throughout his career, including titles such as “Best E-commerce Website” and “Best Businessman of the Year 2007.” In 2011, the Italian group Zeis Excelsa acquired Dirk Bikkembergs, resulting in the brand’s value reaching 75 million euros within a group worth 121 million euros.
Useful links:
– Dirk Bikkembergs official website
– Canepa official website
