How Van Gogh Influences Fashion

How Van Gogh Influences Fashion

Vincent van Gogh, one of the most iconic painters in art history, not only transformed painting but also left a lasting impact on the world of fashion.
His expressive brushstrokes, vibrant colors, and emotional depth continue to capture the imagination of designers and fashion houses across the globe.

From Canvas to Couture

Fashion designers often draw inspiration from art, and Van Gogh’s work is a rich source. His distinctive style appears in fabrics with swirling patterns and bold color combinations. Paintings such as Starry Night, Sunflowers, and Irises are frequently translated into textile prints and embroidery. These vivid compositions give garments an artistic and expressive flair.

“The Starry Night” by Vincent van Gogh (1889)

Vans x Van Gogh Museum (2018)

In a standout collaboration, the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam partnered with Vans in 2018. The result: sneakers, backpacks, and jackets printed with Van Gogh’s iconic works. The collection included Old Vineyard with Peasant Woman, Almond Blossom, and Skull of a Skeleton with Burning Cigarette.

Sneakers with “Almond Blossom” print

Backpack with “Skull with Cigarette”

UNIQLO x MoMA: Art Meets Apparel

Japanese clothing brand UNIQLO, in partnership with MoMA, launched several collections inspired by artists like Van Gogh. Simple yet powerful T-shirts featured fragments of his paintings, making fine art accessible to the masses.

UNIQLO T-shirt with Van Gogh’s Irises

Van Gogh in Streetwear and DIY Fashion

The popularity of platforms like Etsy and Redbubble has led to a boom in indie fashion with Van Gogh prints. Artists and small brands produce bomber jackets, leggings, dresses, and scarves using The Starry Night, Sunflowers, and Wheatfield with Crows.

Etsy bomber jacket with “The Starry Night”

Why Van Gogh Still Inspires

Van Gogh’s ability to turn emotion into color and movement resonates deeply with fashion designers. His work represents freedom, passion, and raw expression — qualities that translate beautifully into wearable art.

Whether it’s on a runway, a sneaker, or a casual T-shirt, Van Gogh continues to influence how we dress. His legacy reminds us that art isn’t just something to admire on a wall — it’s something we can carry with us, every day.