A catalyst for change': how sustainable Copenhagen became fashion's fifth city'

"On Tuesday, the Danish showcase, which has helped catapult homegrown brands including Ganni into the international spotlight alongside spearheading sustainability initiatives, kicked off the start of its 20th anniversary celebrations. What began as the merging of two small trade fairs in 2006 has now become a key biannual event on the fashion calendar attracting editors from glossy publications including Vogue, buyers from global luxury stores and influencers who descend in their droves for the street style scene."

"But back in its infancy in 2006, it was mainly met with scepticism. Cecilie Thorsmark, the chief executive of Copenhagen fashion week (CPHFW), describes the showcase's founder, Eva Kruse, as a visionary. The former Eurowoman magazine editor set out from the start to make it the fifth fashion week. But she was met with a lot of doubt. People found her vision to be unrealistic. Yet, here we are today."

Copenhagen Fashion Week began in 2006 from the merger of two small trade fairs and marked its 20th anniversary with a major showcase. The event helped launch homegrown brands like Ganni and pushed sustainability initiatives within the industry. The biannual week attracts Vogue editors, global luxury buyers and influencers drawn to its street-style scene. Founder Eva Kruse envisioned turning the event into a fifth major fashion week despite early scepticism. The Danish fashion sector has expanded; fashion is now Denmark's third-largest export, with international demand — including the US and Germany — up 84% and accounting for 5% of merchandise exports. Retailers value Scandinavian design principles and craftsmanship.

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