Fashion in Copenhagen

Why We're Swooning Over Scandi Style

Ever scrolled through Instagram and felt an inexplicable pull towards a certain aesthetic? That's what happened to us with Copenhagen fashion. It's like a breath of fresh air – vibrant colors dancing with playful details, all grounded in that signature Scandinavian simplicity. But what exactly is it about Copenhagen that makes it so effortlessly cool?

Let's dive in and uncover the secrets behind this captivating style.

 

Latitude and Longitude of Style: Decoding Danish Design

Copenhagen's allure lies in its unique personality, a captivating blend of playful and polished.  But where does this distinctive style come from? Perhaps the answer lies in its geographical coordinates.

Nestled in the Scandinavian peninsula between 50 and 60 degrees north latitude, Denmark shares the Nordic fashion spotlight with Sweden. Yet, a closer look reveals a fascinating distinction.  Our theory? The higher the latitude, the lower the saturation.

Think of it this way: Compared to Sweden, which sits further north, Denmark embraces a bolder approach to color.  Danish brands aren't afraid to play with vibrant hues, creating a striking contrast to the more muted tones favored by their Swedish counterparts. This daring use of color is a defining characteristic of Copenhagen's fashion identity, setting it apart on the global stage.

   

ⓒricksteves.com

 

Copenhagen's fashion scene is a captivating paradox. It's a vibrant symphony of colors, yet it hums with the quiet confidence of minimalist silhouettes. Like yin and yang, these seemingly opposing forces intertwine, creating a dynamic and utterly unique aesthetic.

While Copenhagen Fashion Week draws the global spotlight, the city's style transcends fleeting trends.  Individuality reigns supreme here, with locals expressing themselves through a kaleidoscope of personal style.

       

ⓒvoguescandinavia.com

  

From polished power suits to streetwear with a Scandi twist, Copenhagen's street style scene is a captivating mix of high and low.  But even with its diverse range, there's an undeniable thread of effortless chic that ties it all together.  This city's sartorial landscape is a feast for the eyes, a constant source of inspiration that proves people-watching is truly an art form in Copenhagen.

  

ⓒEdward Berthelot/Getty Images, ⓒRaimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images

 

Copenhagen is a city synonymous with sustainability.  It's no secret that bikes outnumber people here, and it's not uncommon to see show-goers arriving on two wheels, a scene captured in countless street style snaps.

 

ⓒvoguescandinavia.com, ⓒEdward Berthelot/Getty Images

 

Copenhagen Fashion Week, however, is a different beast entirely.  Since FW23, they've  championed sustainability,  requiring all participating brands to meet strict ethical standards and even banning leather and fur from the runway.  Talk about commitment!

  

Must-have alert!

Cecilie Bahnsen, the darling of the Scandi scene, has captured the hearts of fashionistas worldwide.  Launched in 2015, the brand champions  "everyday couture,"  creating dreamy, wearable pieces that transcend the ordinary.  Think voluminous silhouettes, signature ruffles, and an ethereal aesthetic that's simply irresistible.

  CECILIE BAHNSEN

ⓒ@ceciliebahnsen

 

Scandi style with a masculine edge? Look no further than Sunflower. This Copenhagen-based brand eschews fleeting trends, focusing instead on timeless pieces crafted with expert techniques and premium materials.  Think clean lines, meticulous tailoring, and subtle details that elevate the everyday. If you're looking to add a touch of understated cool to your wardrobe, Sunflower is your new go-to.

  

Sunflower

ⓒ@_hello_sunflower

 

But wait, there's more! Copenhagen's fashion scene is brimming with talent.  Brands like OpéraSPORT and Nicklas Skovgaard are redefining Scandi style, blending Copenhagen's signature minimalism with playful, feminine touches like ruffles and ribbon details. Unexpected and utterly delightful.

  

OpéraSPORT, ⓒ@operasport___

Nicklas Skovgaard, ⓒ@nicklasskovgaard

 

Copenhagen: where sustainability is always in style

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, consistently ranks as one of the happiest places on earth. Perhaps it has something to do with the city's commitment to sustainability, with initiatives like the "carbon neutral pledge" leading the way. Here, environmental responsibility isn't just a trend, it's a way of life.

GANNI embodies this ethos perfectly. In 2021, the brand unveiled a vegan leather made from grape skins, and they've continued to push boundaries with bags and boots crafted from alternative leathers derived from oranges and cacti. But it's not just about innovative materials – GANNI's designs perfectly capture that effortlessly cool Scandinavian aesthetic with a vibrant Danish twist. Consider your sustainable style needs met.

 

GANNI

ⓒ@ganni

 

And, of course, no trip to Copenhagen is complete without a vintage shopping spree.  Considering Denmark's commitment to sustainability, you can bet those charming cobblestone streets are lined with pre-loved treasures just waiting to be discovered.

To make your vintage hunt a little easier, we've got the inside scoop on two must-visit shops: BINTAGGED and JEROME.  Both are curated with an expert eye, offering a covetable selection of designer archive pieces you won't find anywhere else.  Consider this your official excuse to book that Copenhagen trip ASAP.

 

BINTAGGED, ⓒ@bintagged

JEROME, ⓒ@jerome_vintage

 

The city embraces sustainable materials and practices at every level.  It's this commitment to a more conscious fashion future that makes Copenhagen so captivating.  After all, who doesn't love a little optimism with their OOTD?