The “Fifth Fashion Week”: Unpacking Trends From Copenhagen’s Runways
As a hub for fashion’s trendiest emerging brands, it was no surprise that Copenhagen’s fashion week was a testament to its reputation as the unofficial “fifth fashion week”. Innovative designers graced the runways of Copenhagen in early February: from Birrot’s minimalist approach to Fillipa K’s return to layering in the signature Scandinavian manner, this year’s designs were nothing less than standouts.
Layer, Layer, Layer
Layering remains a cornerstone of Scandinavian fashion, and this year was no exception. Designers such as The Garment and MKDT Studio accompanied various textures alongside layering techniques to achieve muted yet dynamic silhouettes. Turtlenecks were a staple piece for the two brands in particular, especially under button-downs and earth-toned cardigans. There were varied textures prominent in both collections, such as The Garment’s pairing of leather with wool and MKDT’s layering with button-downs and suede garments. Both approaches epitomized the Scandi approach of combining practicality with chic, implementing contrasts with color and fabrics.
The Return of the Cardi
As a versatile essential to the everyday wardrobe, the cardigan made countless appearances across various collections. Brands such as Birrot, Opéra Sport, and Skall Studio presented innovative styles of the cardigan, as both form-fitting and more relaxed, loose versions were prominent within all three. Cardigans, both tight and loose-fitted, were prominent within various of this year’s featured brands. Whether layered or worn alone, the cardigan added dimension, often highlighting the neckline or the waist to subtly enhance each look’s silhouette.
Suit Pants and the Trench
A classic pairing, the trench coat with suit pants combo featured in various fashion week looks practically makes known the popularity of chic minimalist. Brands like Skall Studio relied heavily on trench coats to elevate their intricately layered looks. Filippa K, with its reputation for simple elegance, presented monochromatic ensembles that paired trenches with tailored suit pants in muted, earthy tones–a signature of the label’s style.
Courtesy of MKDT Studio, Copenhagen Fashion Week
Elevated, But Make It Cozy
Given Copenhagen’s climate, many brands embraced warmth in their designs. An array of neutral knits, woven fabrics, and heavy wools were prominent within collections from MKDT Studio and Cmmn Swdn, resulting in chic yet cozy looks. Paying homage to the classic Scandinavian silhouette, there was a clear emphasis on maintaining functionality and comfort while implementing a chic and contemporary flair.
Courtesy of Cmmn Swdn, Copenhagen Fashion Week
Anticipating Trends
As the trends of the runway inspire everyday wear, we can expect to see the following trends become popular this season and into the spring:
1) Turtlenecks — Both Sweaters and Sheer: As layering is becoming more and more popular across various collections, turtlenecks often add an extra element to looks, adding a timeless elegance to styles for both warmer and colder weather. The in-between conditions often experienced during the springtime make a more sheer turtleneck paired with a trench or a lightweight overcoat more dynamic, while turtleneck sweaters provide an extra layer of warmth under a wool, fur, or puffer coat during the colder months.
2) Earth Tones and Transitions to Color: Although shades such as grey, olive, beige, and mocha have been prominent on Copenhagen’s runways this past season, we can expect a transition or even combination of earth tones with brighter color pallets as the seasons transition. Following the popularity of layering, looks can easily become more versatile and more adaptable to various personal styles.
Featured Image Courtesy of Copenhagen Fashion Week