Copenhagen in the summer sun is hard to beat. “It doesn’t feel like work,” said one editor attending the fashion week there. Indeed, there were lots of celebrations, brand dinners, Saks Potts’s 10th anniversary “wedding” party, Netflix and Vogue Scandinavia’s Emily in Paris in Copenhagen glamorous shindig. And Caro Editions surprised everyone by changing her presentation into the week’s most charming show. Of course, there was plenty of action on the runways and at the presentations that were new to the calendar this year. Bonnetje recreated an airport maze with retractable belt stanchions; this spoke to the endless rush of modern life. The majority of clothes shown at Copenhagen Fashion Week are meant for an active life; yes, for bicycling, but also for school pick-up and for kicking up your heels in. The lifestyle connection is very strong, but the idea that Danish (and to some extent Scandinavian) fashion is minimal by default is to ignore the local fashion history, and deny the changes happening all around. (Di)vision’s plush-toy coat is as Danish as Skall Studio’s perfect trench coat. Nicklas Skovgaard’s pouf shapes have inspired many ballooning silhouettes; that’s a nice kind of inflation. The student shows were full of colourful, expressive designs as well. In the face of socio-political and economic uncertainties, many brands played it pretty safe. The no-pants look was everywhere, but we’ve been there, done that trend. People do seem to justify buying jeans, and there was a wide variety of options, rather than a predominant fit. Almost all of the trends that were present in Resort were also served up in Denmark, but with that special local charm that has made “I left my heart in Copenhagen” a popular T-shirt slogan. Minimal The Scandi vibe, part I: streamlined and sophisticated. Maximal The Scandi vibe, part II: pretty, electric, extra. Drape nuts Classical draping and pleating for earth-bound goddesses. Denim for days In Copenhagen, no one jeans style reigned, instead there was delightful variety. Extra maillot With these swim-inspired looks, water is optional. Puff pieces Nicklas Skovgaard brought the bubble back; the silhouette is blowing up. Soft serve Surface textures, from furry to distressed, invite touch. Top drawer The rugby shirt is giving the polo a run for its money. Shorts Supplies There are lots of different lengths of shorts on offer, but the to- or just-over-the-knee length feels right after the no-pants trend. On the road An unexpected material for spring, leather was used in many collections. Sheer fantasy Transparency is a trend that has legs; at CPHFW peek-a-boo lace upped the game. Isle hopping The Capri pant has trickled up from the street to the runway. Easy listening Life is tough, sometimes you just need some creature comforts.
Copenhagen Fashion Week: A Whirlwind of Trends and Scandinavian Charm
