Fashion and design walk: MAD Parcours – Downtown Edition

Get ready for a brand new fashion and design walk through the Brussels city centre – from November 14 to 16, MAD Brussels is organising the first edition of the MAD Parcours – Downtown Edition. Along a route through the Dansaert and St Catherine neighbourhoods, this fashion and design walk takes the public to the Bourse, De Brouckère Square and the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries. The MAD Parcours offers fashion and design lovers a unique opportunity to meet local designers, get inspired and discover new spots.

The new parcours will be officially launched on Thursday 14 November with a nocturne until 10pm. During the event, various locations throughout the capital showcase Brussels fashion and design creatives. In total, no fewer than 50 addresses can be discovered, each of which introduces different Brussels fashion and design designers to the public. Not only shops and pop-ups are part of the trail, but also hotels, restaurants and studios are among the addresses of the walk. Private flats of design collectors will also open their doors especially for the occasion. Thanks to an interactive map, available on the app Mapstr, everyone can easily find the different locations.

On the occasion of the MAD Parcours, several exclusive collaborations between established brands and upcoming designers are emerging. Furniture shop Diito Dansaert, for instance, is joining forces with designer Julien Renault. After years of exchange and mutual admiration, the desire to work together finally became a reality thanks to MAD Brussels. The collaboration is not limited to a presentation of his objects in the shop, a talk will also be organised for professionals from the sector.

Additionally, art galleries are also taking part. Complementing its collection focused on the beauty of imperfection and the authenticity of materials, Grège Gallery is exhibiting design pieces by Atelier Romarin, Desmit Studio and Iskandar Degouis. For a more intimate atmosphere, the public can visit the home of collector Jean-François Declercq, who exceptionally opens the doors of his private loft in Brussels for the MAD Parcours. He will present an exhibition in his flat, featuring the work of the duo André Jacob, which will be subtly integrated into his interior.

In the fashion field, the shop Stijl Men, known for its role as a talent scout, will show the latest collection by MIPINTA, an emerging designer questioning the codes of the men’s wardrobe. The Dominican Hotel is also a must visit address of the fashion and design walk. Sara Esther‘s jewellery and Borrenberghs‘ ready-to-wear collections occupy a suite of the hotel. In addition, visitors can get tailored styling advice during their visit to the venue.

“The MAD Parcours brings together Brussels designers, retailers and consumers and offers a unique shopping experience that boosts the image of Brussels. Supporting MAD Brussels, in collaboration with the non-profit association Entrepreneurship Brussels, for this first edition of the MAD Parcours thus fits perfectly into our economic and commercial policy.”

Benhur Ergen, Alderman for Economic Affairs of the City of Brussels

This first edition of the fashion and design walk promises to be a unique shopping experience that will bring the city centre to life. The wide range of activities during the MAD Parcours – Downtown Edition will give the public a chance to discover the creative talent that our capital city is full of.

Practical info:
MAD Parcours – Downtown Edition: 14 November – 16 November

For more information, a list of all locations and participating designers, visit the MAD Brussels website.