Iris van Herpen is one of those truly unique designers. Especially when it comes to haute couture. Witnessing her presentations qualifies as a legit experience since it involves witnessing creations that somehow defy the very laws of physics. Now some have called the designer a tad one-note in the past, arguing there's too much similarity between her daring dresses. The Dutch craftswoman just shut down the doubters by showcasing a "living look" as part of the Iris van Herpen Fall 2025 Haute Couture show.
The collection called Sympoiesis began with an awe-inspiring algae dress. Yup, you read that right. The designer made a dress inhabited by 125 million bioluminescent algae. The contained creatures actually emit light whenever the piece moves. Now she doesn't take all the credit as biodesigner Chris Bellamy severed as collaborator, but the pair's "living system cultivated in seawater and encapsulated in a specialised nutrient gel" is truly a sight to behold. There's a translucent protective coating so both light and air can pass through. It's definitely not something you can buy, which is probably for the best anyway. This museum-worthy piece is pretty priceless.
The rest of the collection is just as engaging with each look serving as a science exhibit of sorts. See more from the amazing Iris van Herpen Fall 2025 Haute Couture show on the brand's Instagram and website.
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