Cotton is a natural fibre valued for its breathability, softness and durability. Comfortable across a wide range of climates, it is one of the most widely used fibres in clothing and can be woven into fabrics ranging from crisp poplin to soft jersey.

Jersey is a knitted fabric rather than a woven one, which gives it natural flexibility, stretch and a soft, fluid drape. It usually has a smooth surface and can range from very lightweight fabrics used for T-shirts to heavier constructions used for dresses and tailoring. The name comes from the island of Jersey in the Channel Islands, where knitted fabrics were traditionally produced for practical garments, particularly for fishermen. Jersey later became closely associated with modern fashion through Gabrielle Chanel, who began using it extensively in womenswear in the 1910s. At the time, jersey was largely associated with menswear and underwear, but Chanel recognised its comfort, flexibility and suitability for relaxed silhouettes and helped establish it as a legitimate material in high fashion.

Founded in Antwerp by Dries Van Noten, the brand is known for its sophisticated use of colour, prints, textiles and historical references. Dries Van Noten graduated from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp and presented his first menswear collection in 1986, later becoming one of the designers associated with the Antwerp fashion movement. His work is particularly recognised for combining refined tailoring with expressive fabrics and unexpected visual combinations.