Stijn Koks (1997, The Netherlands) is a fashion designer, whose work mirrors nostalgic echoes of childhood, while deploying contemporary techniques. His designs evoke a sense of playful wonder, reflecting a profound exploration of the contrasting perspectives between adulthood and the imaginative world of youth. This tension between the responsibilities of maturity and limitless imagination, serves as a driving force in his creations, as he aims to capture and preserve the uninhibited fantasy inherent to an unconditioned mind. He encourages you to reconsider the highly structured world of grown-ups and the limitless possibilities that come with a child’s imagination. Koks embraces a bold design philosophy, fearlessly incorporating tacky and kitsch references and straightforward messaging.
During his formative years at The Royal Academy of Art in The Hague, Koks interned at Walter van Beirendonck in Antwerp. This experience, while heavily focused on the business aspects of fashion, profoundly impacted his understanding of the industry's fast-paced nature and the dynamics of running a brand. Here, he honed his ability to transform abstract concepts into tangible designs—skills that continue to influence his creative process. Following this internship, he joined Henrik Vibskov in Copenhagen, where he enjoyed increased creative liberty, contributing not only to the garments but also to the captivating installations that showcased the collections.
Inspired by his diverse experiences in the fashion industry, Koks ultimately launched his own brand Stijn Koks, indicating to fully realize his own vision. His graduation collection, titled Growing Up is for Adults, garnered him the prestigious Keep An Eye Scholarship Award. In this collection he utilized elements from the medical realm, such as blood bags and needles, combined with whimsical children’s toys, underlining the adult-child contrast.
Koks’ continued use of irony and playful mockery adds depth and intrigue to his work, ensuring that each collection is not only visually striking but also thought-provoking.
Stijn Koks B.V.
KVK 90836154
VAT NL865469672B01
+31637406841
stijnkoks@gmail.com
Nijverheidskade 15
3534AZ
Utrecht, The Netherlands
