De Invasie van StyleLab

On my birthday I attended the Buda Libre XL event, the pre-opening of De Invasie van Kortrijk for press and invitees. It was the first time I visited an event of De Invasie, but it definitely won’t be my last. I’ve discovered some great new designers who are bursting with talent and therefore deserve a spotlight on this blog!

The evening started off with discovering all the 60 “warriors” that were present. There were literally surprises around every corner, so it was important to keep our eyes open. This was the ecologic corner. The warriors were asked to create something about ECOVERnieuwing (eco renewal). The designer who created the best piece won 750€ and out of the people who voted, one could win 250€. This piece by Lio below was my absolute favorite! Too bad it was an unique piece, I wish I bought it then.

Other ecological designs:

After the brief sneak preview, it was time to move on and see the designer booths that were scattered in 3 different locations; the Budascoop, the Budatoren and the Paardenstallen.

My favorite designers of the whole De Invasie experience were definitely Cléo Baele and Sarah Bos of the label Black Balloon. They make the most beautiful clothing and accessories! You can find their shop at Onderbergen 39 in Ghent or shop online via www.blackballoon.be.

You can find ultra-feminine dresses at Karolien Verstraeten. She has her own boutique in the Gasmeterlaan 100 in Ghent.

Gorgeous jewels by Elisa Lee (Elisabeth Leenknecht). I loved her colorful origami broches.Cute but mostly very fun creations by Heidewinne. Fell in love with the bird necklace. When you hang it around your neck, the bird hangs horizontally, which makes it look like it’s flying. Want it! You can buy Heidewinne’s creations at thé new hotspot in Antwerp, Closet.
These lip purses by Mayenne Nelen reminded me of those of Lulu Guinness. Only these are a lot cheaper!
Cute tees and sweaters with a fun twist for women, men and the kiddos from Aaitski. Whether you like cute cartoonified animals, boys & girls, vehicles or buildings, Aaitski has got it all. You can order online via www.aaitski.com.

It’s hammertime with Barbie by De Grote Kleine Prins.

Cute and funny handmade puppet monsters by Monstro.
Loved these tables with light photography prints on them.

Not part of De Invasie, but I loved this cloakroom in the Budascoop. It really felt like I was standing outside under the trees during summer.

Images courtesy of StyleLab, De Invasie and Aaitski.

Next year the warriors will be invading Ghent! Hope to see you there!

You can buy a lot of the above listed designers’ products via De Invasie, check: www.deinvasie.be