“One penny on land is better than ten on the sea” might be a famous Danish saying about playing it safe. Still, Copenhagen Fashion Week’s participants did not consider that when developing their Spring/Summer 2025 collections. Overall, the collections were bold, and the attendees dressed even more daringly. That doesn’t imply bright colors but a certain sense of courage and expression. These are the biggest Spring/Summer 2025 trends from Copenhagen Fashion Week. Cover image: James Cochrane
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SPRING/SUMMER 2025 TRENDS FROM COPENHAGEN FASHION WEEK
Copenhagen Fashion Week proved that comfort and practicality don’t equal compromise on form or craftsmanship. There was Stem’s innovative and intricate “pulling” technique, STEL’s debut collection, and MKDT Studio’s never-disappointing aesthetic. Overall, the collections and trends from Copenhagen Fashion Week emphasize that Danish Fashion Week is here to stay and has earned a good reputation through the years.
One reason for Copenhagen’s popularity is its accessibility. Not everybody can attend the shows and events, but CPHFW’s clothes are meant for a broader audience instead of the lucky few who can afford a new Hermès Birkin bag. Therefore, the fashion week attracts a slightly younger (and bigger) crowd, including many viral street-style looks that dominate the internet right after they appear. Microtrends based on what attendees wear move quickly through the week and disappear (or, sometimes, stay) within the blink of an eye. However, some trends will stick for sure. These are the most essential Spring/Summer 2025 trends from Copenhagen Fashion Week.
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DENIM
Denim, the perennial favorite, made a strong comeback in full-denim ensembles that exuded a sense of rebellious sophistication. This season, designers pushed the boundaries, crafting head-to-toe denim looks that ranged from tailored jumpsuits to layered separates. As an ode to Denmark’s cycling culture, the pedal pusher formed the common thread in many looks. Furthermore, many of the pieces were often paired with unexpected details like frayed edges and contrasting stitching.
DROPPED WAIST
You either love or hate it, but the dropped-waist silhouette emerged as a playful yet elegant trend, offering a fresh take on femininity. These dresses, reminiscent of the roaring ’20s, elongated the torso and created a relaxed, almost carefree vibe. Whether in flowing chiffons or structured cottons, dropped-waist dresses were a nod to the past, reimagined for the modern woman.
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GREEN
If there was one color that ruled the runways, it was green. Inspired by Charli XCX’s brat, the vibrant hue channeled the essence of this year’s brat girl summer, even though the clothes were designed way before brat was released. The color evokes a bold, unapologetic energy. Designers embraced the color in all its forms, making it clear that green isn’t just a shade this season—it’s a statement.
LEATHER
Leather continued its dominance, but this time, it was all about head-to-toe ensembles that manifested power and edge. Designers went beyond the classic biker jacket, introducing complete leather outfits that included everything from cow prints (Gestuz) to glossy finishes (Baum und Pferdgarten).
WHITE TONES
In stark contrast to the season’s bolder trends, white tones offered fresh air. The runways were inundated with ethereal whites, from crisp shirts to billowing maxi skirts. The monochromatic palette, whether in eco-cotton or silk, was anything but basic. Designers played with texture and form, offering everything from lace detailing to structured tailoring.
OFFICE CORE
Office Core emerged as a more subtle trend, blending the sharp tailoring of the ’80s and ’90s with a modern twist. Think power suits with exaggerated shoulders, pencil skirts paired with oversized blazers, and low-waisted trousers that demand attention. The trend is all about reclaiming the boardroom with a sense of style that’s equal parts nostalgic and forward-thinking. Whether channeling Melanie Griffith in Working Girl or adding a slash of contemporary edge, Office Core is your go-to for mastering workwear this season.
SHEER
Sheer fabrics brought a touch of sensuality to the Spring/Summer 2025 collections, with transparent materials that left just enough to the imagination (in most cases). Designers played with layering and texture, offering everything from sheer blouses to see-through skirts. This trend isn’t just about baring skin—it’s about creating an interplay of opacity and transparency that’s both delicate and daring.
PUMP UP THE VOLUME
Voluminous clothing took center stage at Nicklas Skovgard, Han Kjøbenhavn, and many others, embracing exaggerated shapes and proportions. Balloon skirts, puffy sleeves, and oversized jackets added drama to the collections. This trend is about embracing bold silhouettes that challenge traditional ideas of fit and form, with Cristóbal Balenciaga’s balloon skirt (1951) as the primary source of inspiration.
Overall, Copenhagen Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2025 was a masterclass in contrasts—where minimalism met maximalism, and tradition intertwined with innovation and sustainability. From the resurgence of denim to the unapologetic embrace of color and volume, the season’s trends are a testament to fashion’s ever-evolving aesthetic. As these looks will soon hit the streets, one thing is sure: Copenhagen’s influence on the global fashion landscape is stronger than ever.
