Dries Van Noten, the successful independent Belgian designer fashion house, and Puig, the family-owned, fashion and fragrance company based in Barcelona, have entered into a strategic partnership.

Puig will be the majority owner alongside Dries, who remains, over the long term, a significant minority shareholder. Additionally, Dries Van Noten will continue as Chief Creative Officer and Chairman of the Board. 

The two privately owned companies are said to share a common cultural foundation and core values and are each committed to prudent and intuitive growth. 

“We are beyond excited to partner with Dries Van Noten and his team,” declared Marc Puig, Puig Chairman and CEO (pictured left with Van Noten). “We look forward to further developing the Dries Van Noten label, a brand renowned for exceptional creativity. As an independent house, Dries Van Noten has, over the years, built an exceptional reputation with its avant-garde fashion collections.

"Our entry today into the capital structure of Dries Van Noten proves yet again our strategic commitment to developing the Puig fashion business. Today we are proud to welcome Dries Van Noten to our fashion family, alongside Carolina Herrera, Jean Paul Gaultier, Nina Ricci and Paco Rabanne.”

Dries Van Noten added: “I am delighted that we are beginning the next chapter of the Dries Van Noten company and my work as designer alongside Puig, a team I have come to know and a company I have always greatly respected. I am looking forward to their commitment and support. I have been searching for a strong partner for the company which I have built for more than thirty years.

"I am especially happy that Antwerp and my team will remain at the company’s heart and centre. Our relationship with our customers is a cherished one and will only benefits from this enhanced vision. Together, we are now ready to realise our dreams.”