COPENHAGEN VISION
It seems that the whole concept of Danish design is forever broadening and reaching new hights. One example is the many Danish fashion designers now sweeping the international catwalks.
Instead of following the trends dictated in the fashion Meccas of Paris, London or Milan, a new generation of garment creators are hailing the national features of simplicity, functionality and individuality - resulting in a strongly Nordic expression.

One of the exponents of this trend is the new fashion fair, "CPH Vision", which is held twice a year at the Øksnehallen, one of Copenhagen's most happening exhibition halls. This is a trade fair, which, for those who want to see the newest trends in Scandinavian designer clothes, has grown to become one of the world's leading fashion fairs in just three years.

A more intimate kind of fair
Jan Busch Carlsen, Director of CHP Vision, explains the success of the fair as follows:

"I wanted to offer a fashion fair in Denmark that was more intimate for both exhibitors and visitors and would put Copenhagen on the map. At the same time, I also wanted to try the idea of promoting Design and Streetwear under the same roof. This was previously unheard of as people believed Designwear and Streetwear to be two completely different concepts. I thought differently and foresaw that the gap between these two fashions would be bridged in the years ahead."

He was right! "We make no distinction between big established brands and smaller new companies. For us, the finished product is the most important issue and that is what people come to see. Young designers need a platform for showing their collections and for testing new ideas. Money is not plentiful when starting a new company, so we are very flexible with our stand sizes and reasonable with stand costs, making the fair accessible for new, innovative talent."

What does the future hold?
Jan is not giving any secrets away, but he does say that Streetwear seems to be sub-dividing into 'active sportswear' and 'streetwear' where there is more focus on textile technology. There is also the clear emergence of 'clubwear' and designwear is becoming more defined. One thing is for sure, whatever it is, you'll see it first at CPH Vision in Copenhagen!