The story of DIED began at ArtEZ Fashion Arnhem, where founders Diederik Verbakel and Marieke Holthuis first met as classmates. This early creative bond laid the foundation for a partnership that has spanned over 30 years, taking them from high-level international roles at major fashion houses like Diesel to the launch of their own label in 2010.
Today, operating from their studio in Aalten, the duo has transitioned from global fashion to a deeply personal, local, and artisanal approach to design. Their brand, DIED, is defined by a commitment to art upcycling and high-end craftsmanship.
The Artisanal Edge
The duo’s work is a masterclass in transformation. They specialize in breathing new life into forgotten materials, turning silk curtains, vintage chairs, and high-quality remnants into unique interior treasures. Their process is tactile and labor-intensive, featuring:
Manual Screenprinting: Each piece of fabric is hand-printed in their own atelier, ensuring every cushion and textile is a one-off original.
Theatrical Artistry: Diederik brings a multidisciplinary edge to the brand, known for his expressive work with makeup and masks, which informs the bold, avant-garde aesthetic of their collections.
Sustainable Luxury: By focusing on natural materials and local production, they challenge the fast-fashion cycle, creating “modern heirlooms” that balance raw energy with refined design.
Diederik and Marieke’s work is more than just home decor; it is a continuation of a lifelong artistic conversation that started in the studios of Arnhem and now lives in the most soul-filled interiors around the world.
