After the shocking announcement last week that Dries Van Noten sold his majority stake to the Spanish luxury group Puig, there was a palpable sense of anticipation before the show. The first outfit hit the runway featuring swim shorts, heralding another surprise from Van Noten: his collaboration with Verner Panton. Verner Panton, one of the twentieth century’s most influential designers, was celebrated for his avant-garde vision and commitment to innovation, shaping much of the 60s design aesthetic. Later in his career, Panton created total environments renowned for their vibrant colors and textiles. Van Noten wanted to capture the inherent optimism in Panton’s work, and the collection radiated positivity and freshness. The prints and their subtle execution were spectacular. Van Noten, a master colorist, combined forces with Panton to create a visually stunning collaboration. His smart decision to apply the prints to masculine workwear, tailored pieces, and sportswear fabrics made the vivid colors more wearable and desirable. Who would have thought that a fabric designed for a 60s sofa would be perfect for a linen day suit? Only Van Noten. The tracksuit bottoms were exceptional, bringing sartorial elegance to basic streetwear. These tracksuit bottoms can be worn formally, a feat Van Noten achieves effortlessly, much to the delight of his loyal followers. The super-light nylons used in outerwear parkas, shirts, and a full boiler suit embodied Panton’s futuristic use of industrial materials, offering something truly unique. Van Noten’s positive mood was infectious, leaving everyone smiling after the triumphant show. Backstage, the atmosphere was jubilant, with large-scale installations of Panton’s interior images inspiring spontaneous dancing among the racks.