Dutch Footwear Icon Jan Jansen Passes Away at the Age of 85
It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of Jan Jansen. With his death, the Netherlands loses one of its most influential and innovative footwear designers. For more than six decades, Jan Jansen continuously pushed the boundaries of shoe design. His bold creations, innovative use of materials and distinctive vision made him an internationally recognised icon within the fashion and footwear industry.
For Hooijer Footwear Group, this loss represents far more than the passing of a renowned designer. Jan was an inspiration, a visionary and, above all, a remarkable person. His creativity, craftsmanship and unique perspective on design have inspired generations of designers, retailers and fashion enthusiasts.
Over the past years, Hooijer Footwear Group worked closely with Jan Jansen on the further development of his brand. Until the very end, Jan remained actively involved in new projects. The Hooijer family collaborated with Jan on a film about his life and career, based on his memoirs. In addition, they worked intensively together on the relaunch of the iconic Bruno sneaker, one of his most beloved designs.
The relaunch of the Bruno was the final project on which Jan collaborated with Hooijer Footwear Group. The company will dedicate this model to Jan Jansen as a tribute to his exceptional contribution to the Dutch footwear industry. Originally introduced in 1981, the Bruno will be relaunched 45 years later, serving as a lasting reminder of his creativity, craftsmanship and pioneering vision of design.
His legacy lives on through his designs, his stories and the enduring influence he has had on both the Dutch and international footwear industry.
"Jan showed us that shoes can be so much more than functional objects. He transformed footwear into art, stories and personality. His creativity will continue to inspire us. We are deeply grateful for the trust that Jan and his loved ones placed in us and look back with great pride on our special collaboration. Our thoughts are with his wife and muse, Tonny, his family, friends and everyone who held him dear."
Kristel Hooijer
On behalf of the management and employees of Hooijer Footwear Group
