Amélie Nothomb, Writer

Where do you come from in Belgium and where are you living now?

 

I grew up in Antwerp, a city renowned for its strong fashion credentials. I then moved to Brussels to complete my studies at the Fashion academy of La Cambre and have lived here since I left school. Belgium is a very important place for me and many aspects of my collection and inspiration can be related to it.

 

What do you really miss from Belgium when you travel?

 

My Family, my friends and the “fries mayonaise” ;)

 

Your favourite place to relax?

 

Aspria Avenue Louise, having brunch at the weekend at Gaudron on Place Brugman, sitting at a terrace in the Dansaert neighbourhood with my daughter Giulia.

 

Your favourite Belgian dish?

 

Roast chicken with apple compote and fritjes

 

If you were…

 

I would love to be an exquisitely decorated praline from Marcolini

 

What does make Belgium / Belgians special?

 

It is a founding member of the European Union and hosts its headquarters, as well as those of other major international organizations. It is also located in the heart of Europe and therefore also a real hub in many respects and especially for fashion, culture, etc. Belgians are known for their open-minded fashion culture, which is why I chose to stay in my native country to further develop my artistic skills.

 

What makes you proud to be Belgian?

 

Belgium has seen the flourishing of major artistic movements that have had tremendous influence on European art and culture. I am always proud to say that I graduated from La Cambre Academy, which has an excellent reputation all over the world and that I am one of the current young/upcoming designers.

 

For you, the European Union is…

 

A way of uniting great countries, cultures and people together and personally a way of designing, producing and presenting my collection at once in one place!