During her fashion studies in Ghent, young Belgian creative Laurence Leenaert worked at the Bellerose flagship store there during the weekends and holidays. Even though it hasn’t been that long, a lot has changed since: Laurence launched LRNCE and moved to Marrakesh, where her brand flourished. During that same time our Ghent store has been renewed twice and our total number of stores has pretty much doubled. October 10th marks the launch of a collaboration that was bound to happen, given both brands’ constant search for authenticity, savoir faire and durability : LRNCE x Bellerose
Laurence Leenaert - LRNCE & Derek Van Heurck - Bellerose
“Collaborations are the perfect way to associate Bellerose with people that inspire me”, our Artistic Director Derek Van Heurck points out and that’s exactly what happened here. It’s fairly easy for us to relate to LRNCE, because of our Belgian roots and shared past, but we’re also inspired by the stubborn way in which Laurence does her own thing. The universe LRNCE operates in has a strong and easily identifiable visual code, exuding playfulness and adventure. Running on instinct, she creates versatile collections that consist of ceramics, tapestries, kimonos and textiles of all kinds. On top of that, she exclusively works with local artisans – always looking for the perfect partners to link up with. Quality over quantity, integrity over passing trends.
Bellerose on the other hand has been around for 30 years now. After having started with a simple line of men’s shirts, the brand has grown into something truly unique, offering three different collections (men, women and kids), with an eclectic mix of influences and a carefully curated mix of invited brands. We aim to inspire a lifestyle in which timeless aesthetics and durable quality are central pillars. Our stores are the logical extension of our vision. The world of fashion is changing rapidly, which can be slightly scary, but it also pushes us to constantly question and reinvent ourselves.
“I love niche products that can’t be found everywhere”, Laurence says, and that idea is reflected in the limited quantities of this collaboration. With only a little over 300 candles and 200 t-shirts made, we really want people to feel that they have something special in their hands. Both products are perfect examples of how two brands can coalesce. “We both personalized an item the other is known for”, Derek explains. “We came up with the t-shirts, while the prints were drawn by LRNCE. With the candles, it was a no-brainer to combine hand painted ceramics with Bellerose’s trademark scent”.
The capsule collaboration is available from October 10th at 10 am, on www.bellerose.be and in the following Bellerose stores: Ghent, Antwerp, Brussels Place Stéphanie & Paris Rue Jacob.
Pictures : Louis Vielle & Nathalie Gabay
