UP CLOSE WITH: Teamleader Contemporary Department Alexandra Verduyn

In honor of our 50th anniversary, we’re celebrating the people behind Fashion Club 70. Up Close With those who have been part of the company for many years. A series of 12 people, the whole year round, that define the half-century of FC70.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE FASHION CLUB 70 IN ONE WORD?

Fascinating and constantly evolving! At Fashion Club 70, no two days are ever the same. New clients, different tastes, and always a surprising selection. No copy-paste, but fresh ideas, season after season. That’s what makes it exciting and full of energy.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE WITHIN THE COMPANY AND WHERE DOES YOUR EXPERTISE LIE?

I’ve been the team lead of the contemporary department for 18 years now , a role that keeps evolving. I started out working with the main lines of brands like Valentino, Roberto Cavalli and Marni, today my focus is on contemporary collections and strong collaborations. What makes my job so special? The relationships you build. I’ve known some suppliers for so long that seeing them feels like reconnecting with old friends, even if they’re on the other side of the world.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE MOST SIGNIFICANT CHANGE IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS, AND HOW HAS FC70 RESPONDED TO IT?

The fashion world has become much more rational. Where things used to be driven by gut feeling and spontaneity, decisions are now made more consciously and based on data. Budgets play a bigger role and calculations are tighter. There’s less instinct, more insight, though that fashion instinct still matters, of course.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST MEMORY AT FC70?

One moment that has always stayed with me: Mr. Valentino’s final show in 2008 at the Carrousel du Louvre. Fifty models in identical, stunning evening gowns, all in that perfect Valentino red. Absolutely breathtaking. I ended up backstage with a client, right in the middle of the organized chaos. We didn’t have smartphones back then, so no photos, but the image is still crystal clear in my mind.