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.

Denim is a sturdy woven fabric traditionally made with a cotton twill construction, recognisable by its characteristic diagonal weave. It usually has a darker warp and lighter weft, creating the familiar contrast seen in classic denim, although modern versions can vary considerably in colour and weight. Unlike plain-weave fabrics such as canvas, denim has a clearly visible diagonal structure. The name denim is generally linked to the French phrase serge de Nîmes, meaning serge from Nîmes, while the related word jeans is associated with Genoa: Gênes was the French name for the Italian city, and a sturdy fabric associated with Genoa was known as jean. The two terms originally referred to related but distinct textiles and later became closely associated with the blue cotton trousers we know today. In the nineteenth century, Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis helped establish riveted denim work trousers in the United States, turning the fabric into the foundation of the modern blue jean.

Founded in Antwerp by Dries Van Noten, the brand is known for its sophisticated use of colour, prints, textiles and historical references.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.