Claude, the 21-year-old Dutch contestant for the Eurovision Song Festival 2025 in Basel, has unveiled his striking outfit, setting the stage for his upcoming performance. Designed by Ilona Simons of the fashion label I.SIMONS, Claude's ensemble features a shiny, deep burgundy three-piece suit that includes a loose-fitting pantalon, a gilet, and a colbert adorned with pearl details. This eye-catching outfit not only showcases his unique style but also pays homage to his previous performances.
The outfit, which glistens like a fine wine under the Swiss sun, is complemented by a pearl necklace that Claude has worn in his music video and during appearances on shows like Eva Jinek's. This personal touch makes the look not just fashionable but also meaningful, as it resonates with his artistic identity. The suit is designed to allow for fluid movement, essential for the intense choreography that accompanies his performance of "C'est la Vie," although he plans to keep the dancing to a minimum during the actual event.
Claude's first rehearsal took place on Sunday afternoon, May 4, 2025, at the Basel arena, where he is preparing for his performance on May 13, 2025, during the first semi-final of the Eurovision Song Festival. If he secures enough votes, he will advance to the grand final scheduled for May 17, 2025. With his standout outfit and compelling song, Claude is poised to make a significant impact on the Eurovision stage.
The designer, Ilona Simons, is known for her bold redefinition of menswear, merging modern luxury with craftsmanship. Her designs have been worn by various artists and performers who wish to break free from traditional fashion norms. Simons has a keen eye for performance aesthetics, ensuring that each piece not only looks good but also enhances the artist's presence on stage.
As Claude prepares to represent the Netherlands, reactions to his outfit reveal a wave of support from fans and fellow artists alike. Comments on his social media posts have included praise from notable figures, with Miss Montreal calling him the "best stylist ever" and singer Dotan expressing his admiration with a heart emoji. This enthusiastic reception underscores the excitement surrounding Claude's participation in the festival.
On his journey to Basel, which began on Saturday, May 3, 2025, Claude has expressed his readiness to deliver a memorable performance that embodies both his musical talent and his distinctive fashion sense. As he steps onto the Eurovision stage, all eyes will be on him—not just for his song, but for the statement his outfit makes.
With the Eurovision Song Festival being a platform where fashion plays a crucial role in an artist's presentation, Claude's choice of attire is sure to be a topic of conversation. The combination of his personal style and the artistic vision of Ilona Simons creates a narrative that goes beyond mere performance; it’s about identity, expression, and the celebration of creativity.
As the countdown to the semi-final continues, fans are eager to see how Claude's outfit and performance will resonate with the audience. Will his striking ensemble help him secure a spot in the grand final? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Claude is ready to shine.
