2005 – 2013: Arnhem Fashion Biennale

State of Fashion builds on the Arnhem Mode Biënnale (2005–2013) and on the strong fashion profile that Arnhem has developed over the past decades. The city has long been known for its distinctive creative climate, due in part to the international reputation of ArtEZ University of the Arts, where generations of fashion designers have been trained with a critical and experimental approach to fashion.

In 2003, the Arnhem Mode Biënnale Foundation was established on the initiative of the Municipality of Arnhem and ArtEZ, with the aim of promoting Dutch fashion and positioning it at national and international level. Where many foreign initiatives focused primarily on the economic value of fashion, Arnhem deliberately chose an approach centred on cultural, social and societal impact. This vision aligned closely with local education, research and entrepreneurship in the fields of sustainability and innovation.

After four editions about various themes, curated by pioneering curators such as Piet Paris, Joff and Lidewij Edelkoort, the last edition took place in 2013.

Photo header: Jil Sander Spring Summer 2011 collection. Photo by Team Peter Stigter (2011)