As a seasoned fashion enthusiast with decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the camaraderie and creativity showcased at this year’s Copenhagen Fashion Week left me utterly captivated. The story of Catherine Saks and Barbara Potts, two kindergarten buddies turned business partners, is a testament to the power of friendship and shared vision. Their label, Saks Potts, embodies the spirit of playfulness and experimentation that has become synonymous with Danish design, while staying true to traditional sartorial codes.
Copenhagen might not often be the initial European destination people consider, but it definitely deserves a spot on everyone’s list. This vibrant city showcases many characteristics that Europe is renowned for: boasting a high number of bicycles compared to cars, a rich history spanning millennia, charming streets and structures, Michelin-starred eateries, and an artistic, fashionable, and design-savvy culture that competes with the best in the world.
During winter, many parts of Europe can appear quite gloomy. But come summertime, there’s a strange suspicion that this place might not be real – it seems almost like a utopia. Here, trains always arrive punctually, crime is minimal, and people feel free to dive into streams whenever they wish. The city, despite its small size, carries an air of calm confidence that belies its considerable impact.
It’s possible that the Danish people exhibit a casual attitude, which might originate from the principles of Janteloven or the Law of Jante, a Scandinavian social norm that encourages teamwork rather than individuality. This philosophy is reflected in Danish design and fashion, as seen in brands like Hay, Tekla, NN.07, and Audo Copenhagen. During Copenhagen Fashion Week (CPHFW), held in January and August, this ethos becomes particularly noticeable, positioning itself as a laid-back alternative to the bustling events in London, Paris, and New York.
Just as the city of Copenhagen operates efficiently like a well-oiled machine, so does the CPHFW (Copenhagen Fashion Week), with its smooth running largely attributed to the energetic COO, Isabella Rose Davey. Previously based in London, Isabella had been instrumental in nurturing up-and-coming labels under the British Fashion Council’s NEWGEN initiative. Now, having spent four years at the helm, she has replicated this success with a variety of Scandinavian brands that are captivating the global fashion scene. TopMob was fortunate enough to be included in the recent Spring/Summer 2025 collections showcased during Copenhagen Fashion Week. These presentations took place in historical and modern courtyards, as well as featuring exclusive sneaker releases, graduate shows, and anniversary celebrations. Here are our top moments from the event.
NN.07 x SLOP Magazine
In a harmonious match, collaboration between NN.07, a Copenhagen label, and SLOP Magazine is a natural fit, much like ripe crops harvested at the perfect time. The union continues with their second joint project, an Ollie jacket. Inspired by SLOP’s unique coverage of the global produce scene and Copenhagen’s culinary prowess, this jacket promises enduring style that transcends seasons.
Crafted using brown organic cotton woven with yarn-dye, the jacket boasts tonal Corozo buttons and an embroidered strawberry design that appears to be blooming from the left chore pocket symbolically. Enhanced by NN.07 and SLOP’s branding, the Ollie jacket is a limited edition piece, only 100 units are available globally. It was initially showcased during the joint launch event for Issue 5 of SLOP Magazine, which highlights neglected produce and ingredients within cities – ranging from community gardens in West London to greenhouses in North London, coastal areas in Edinburgh, and delving into the rich wine history of Prague.
Established in 2007, NN.07 (named after its founders’ lack of nationality) was initially sparked by their journey to Tokyo. The brand embodies the charm associated with Danish design, characterized by a timeless yet contemporary aesthetic — essentially using clothing as a medium to narrate tales about today’s and tomorrow’s requirements.
If you’re interested in buying, there are remaining stock of small batches of NN.07 Ollie jackets labeled as SLOP, priced at $293 USD, available for purchase online.
OpéraSPORT at the Operaparken
To begin the series of events for the week, the fashion show by OpéraSPORT took place at the newly constructed Opera Park (Operaparken) amphitheater, which serves as a concert venue. The location, similar to other parts of Copenhagen, offers a stunningly beautiful landscape with boats and swimmers in the distance, while the latest collection by Stephanie Gundelach and Awa Malina Stelter was inspired by the nearby angular architecture and flower gardens bordering the runway.
Stelter and Gundelach drew significant inspiration from the Baroque designs of the Exillion Garden, located near the Danish capital. In their SS25 collection for OpéraSPORT, they incorporated various elements such as quilted leather vests, striped silk shirts and skirts, frilled tops layered over chic swimsuits, all bearing floral accents. Notably, these pieces were crafted using recycled and organic materials, and the presentation was accompanied by a romantic soundtrack featuring songs like “Zombie Park” by JB Dunckel and “Come Wander with Me” by Bonnie Beecher.
Free Sneakers From Salehe Bembury and New Balance
Collaborating with Salehe Bembury, New Balance unveiled a limited edition 530 model adorned in vibrant highlighter tones. The release sent ripples through the sneaker community, with many lining up outside Copenhagen’s Etage Projects art gallery to secure a pair. Unfortunately, if you weren’t among those in line, your chances of owning these special shoes are slim, as they were only given away for free during the temporary event.
Crafted using mesh and suede materials, the upper showcases a vibrant highlighter yellow foundation embellished with pops of purple, teal, and pink. Notable details include the “N” logo, elegantly styled in shiny metallic silver with Bembury’s distinctive fingerprint pattern, along with a supportive Abzorb midsole and a cork insole for added comfort.
In recent years, only a handful of independent shoe designers have left as significant an impression as Bembury. Based in both New York and Los Angeles, this creative powerhouse has stirred up storms in various markets with his series of collaborative launches, such as the Crocs Pollex Juniper, which resembles an alien design, and the announcement that he will be designing PUMA’s upcoming basketball shoe model.
Rolf Ekroth Takes You on a Floral Reverie
In every collection he creates, Rolf Ekroth, the Finnish designer, weaves in personal tales and traditions. Many pieces from his label are handmade by his family members, while also incorporating reminiscences of his heritage and passions. For the Spring/Summer ’25 collection, Ekroth invites us to step into a dreamy world filled with flowers, celebrating the popular Lavatanssit dances that are common in rural Finland.
Showcased at Poolen’s warehouse, Ekroth’s upcoming gender-neutral collection harmoniously blends elements of dreaminess and melancholy. The designs feature a variety of prints such as camouflage, tartan, and marguerite flowers that adorn several silhouettes, including technical coats, oversized double-breasted jackets, and life vests which transform into billowing tunics. Initially, the latter item seems whimsical and diverse; however, upon learning about the Finnish game called hukkumisbingo, it becomes clear that there are somber undertones associated with this game, where people wager on how many individuals may overindulge in alcohol and drown during the summer season in a lake.
Highlights from the assortment include a uniquely designed pair of blue jeans adorned with 250 dandelions, which seem to bloom with every step. For this collection, Ekroth once again teamed up with various partners such as Happy Socks, Puma (representative of the Speedcats worn by the models), Kalevala jewelry, and designers Matilda Diletta, Tino Nyman, and Richard Ntege, who contributed their creative talents to design and styling.
Tekla Introduces Its Softest Collection Yet
Not many sleepwear brands have as devoted a fanbase as Tekla. Ever since it started in 2017, this Danish brand has carved out a distinctive niche for its soft bedding, terry towels, and pajamas that can also be worn casually outside the house. Taking inspiration from famous artists and designers like Agnes Martin, Donald Judd, and Le Corbusier, Tekla has collaborated on various projects throughout these years, such as a collaboration with Artek, sleepwear with Jacquemus, and comfortable slides with Birkenstock.
At its main store located in Copenhagen, the brand showcases the Sateen assortment of bedding and sleepwear, offering some of their most lavish items to date. This collection comes in colors such as pink (porter), white (savoy), light blue (bellhop) and navy (chelsea). The newest selection of long-sleeved shirts and pants are skillfully made from 100 percent organic cotton in a radiant midweight texture. Charlie Hedin, founder and creative director of Tekla, expressed in a statement that the brand has consistently aimed to produce high-quality items that make everyday moments feel luxurious. The Sateen collection follows this ethos, utilizing timeless designs to upgrade daily routines.
In the Sateen range, the fabric is tightly woven with a high thread count of 400 (240 for the striped white version), making it both durable and delightfully soft against your skin. Each piece features elegant mother-of-pearl buttons adorning extended closures. Discover our entire collection here.
Mark Kenly Domino Tan Reflects on the Cycles of Nature for SS25
At the 18th-century Kunsthal Charlottenborg, Mark Kenly Domino Tan (MKDT) unveiled its SS25 collection. This historic building, originally a palace, now houses one of Denmark’s most impressive contemporary art collections. MKDT’s SS25 line was presented like sculptures themselves, with designs primarily in neutral shades such as cream, chestnut, white, and black. Each model on the runway seemed to resemble Carrera marble statues strolling around the circular courtyard while carrying organic pieces crafted by Danish designer Sara Martinsen. The atmosphere was enhanced by a live performance from a trio of musicians.
A relaxed atmosphere was evident in every figure: from voluminous vests, wrinkled blouses, and coordinated pants to short jackets that flowed around the wearer like cloaks and broad-brimmed hats with deep rims shielding them from the weather. Pieces that particularly caught the eye were a sophisticated beige trench coat with a button detail that resembles a flower petal closing over its center, and a classic tan trench coat with a chest-wide belt that gives a floral wave-like appearance. MKDT designs each piece using a blend of eco-friendly and long-lasting materials to create timeless silhouettes that can withstand both time and fashion trends. The fusion of music, architecture, and clothing produced a hypnotic sensation, as if each pluck of the bass guitar was felt.
Saks Potts Turns 10
Working with friends isn’t always the best choice, as challenges are bound to occur in business ventures – be it a band, company, studio, or fashion brand. These difficulties can gradually strain friendships. However, for Catherine Saks and Barbara Potts, the Danish co-founders of their label, Saks Potts, this wasn’t the case.
Initially meeting in kindergarten, they’ve maintained a bond stronger than most, spanning over two decades, more like lifelong sisters playing together in the yard instead of professional counterparts tackling real-world problems. This playful dynamic is reflected in their Copenhagen design label, which deviates from typical minimalist Danish aesthetics by creating bold, expressive pieces. These designs respect traditional fashion norms but aren’t shy about exploring vibrant colors and unconventional materials. Each piece tells a unique story without resorting to tacky gimmicks.
Since 2013, the brand has produced go-to staples that have been worn by en masse by the likes of Rihanna, Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and countless others. From the honeydew Foxy Shearling Coat that Hadid was spotted in to the no frills Serena longsleeve polo shirt that will grow old in your closet. Saks Potts celebrated 10 years in business during CPHFW with an extravagant party held at the lakeside Embassy of Switzerland in Hellerup. Close friends and family of the brand, as well as press from around the world commenced for a night of festivities that included Danish acrobatic dancers, face paint and fire works — each element, like each garment in their collections, paying nod to the stories from Catherine and Barbara’s youth, as the duo cheers to the next ten years.
Build a Relationship With Your Clothes, Says the Royal Danish Academy
The Royal Danish Academy inquires: “How do you connect with local culture, tradition, and express that bond through your design, specifically garments?” This question was posed to every senior showcasing their work at CPHFW. It might seem as though these designs were crafted by experienced professionals instead of students. The talent, skill, and originality in each collection are typically gained from numerous years of experimentation and refinement. Simultaneously, there’s a common thread throughout all collections: the desire to forge connections with our clothing, considering the pressing issue of climate change — a problem that the fashion industry contributes significantly to.
As a fashion enthusiast, I can’t help but admire the visionary approach of these designers. By weaving emotional and cultural narratives into their garments, they’re paving a path towards a more accountable future for our industry. This isn’t just about using sustainable materials, but also recognizing the profound impact of cultural values within fashion and how it resonates with the wearer. As stated by Else Skjold, a textiles and ecology researcher at the Royal Academy, this is a significant stride towards a more responsible and meaningful fashion world.
Cecilie Bahnsen and ASICS Reveal the First Women’s Model of the Gel-Quantum 360 VIII
As a fervent admirer, I can’t help but reminisce about the exhilarating 2024 Paris Olympic Games, an event that sparked unparalleled competition and camaraderie. Yet, the echoes of that spirit continue to resonate, as evidenced by a groundbreaking collaboration between ASICS and Cecilie Bahnsen, a Copenhagen native and finalist for the prestigious LVMH Prize. They’ve joined forces to introduce the inaugural women’s model of the ASICS Gel-Quantum 360 VIII – a testament to their commitment to empowering female athletes!
“Bahnsen explained to TopMob during the launch, ‘We transformed a traditionally masculine shoe into something more feminine by focusing on transparency, floral patterns, and lightening the design.’ The new shoe designed in collaboration with a Japanese label retains essential features like velcro straps and flowery sole designs that show through the transparent sole unit. The campaign for this shoe was captured using a Danish gymnast who performed impressive acrobatic moves, symbolizing the sporty emotions embodied within the product.”
You can buy the Cecilie Bahnsen collaboration with ASICS, the Gel-Quantum 360 XIII, in either mint or yellow color for €240 EUR / $262 USD. This item is available through an online raffle system.
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2024-08-12 16:58