Words by Patrycja Zaraś

 

Scandinavia’s hottest brand right now, Cecilie Bahnsen, has unveiled her first ever solo space at Dover Street Market in London. The store-in-store has been designed and curated by Cecilie, in the spirit of her signature modern femininity. Bahnsen is known for her voluminous, unconventionally shaped, romantic dresses, but also her affinity for flats and laid-back approach to womenswear. 

“Whenever you feel comfortable and good in something, you also feel strong,” she says in an interview for Harper’s Baazar. “It’s not just about the big shoulder or a tight waist, it’s about having that comfort where your own personality can shine through. That’s strength.”

Bahnsen graduated from Danish Design School and London’s Royal College of Art. Her impressive portfolio includes working for names like John Galliano and Erdem. This unusual blend has contributed to her eclectic approach to shapes and materials. “Both are very romantic brands inspired by history,” says Bahnsen. “Galliano influenced me in the way he would push every idea to the limit – it was very much about the process. For me, to be pushed so far from my Scandinavian background was a good thing. It’s definitely shaped me.”

This is yet another chapter in the brand’s collaboration with Dover Street Market, as the store has previously presented the designer’s debut collection, before her breakthrough at Copenhagen Fashion Week. “Dover Street Market has a true love for creativity and craft. It’s a home for so many brands that I admire. With the space I wanted to have a feel of coolness, something a little cold to touch. The collection is so romantic we wanted to make a contrast” said Cecilie.

Centered around two main pieces designed exclusively for DSM – a pink pleated organza suit and dress with matching pink sandals – the space reflects Bahnsen’s multifaceted concept of her brand, where garments and art are harmonized. To achieve her vision, the designer teamed up with her past collaborators and friends to create a space which would be an extension of her universe.  Artist Nina Nørgaard designed ice-like rocks, which complement the base of clothes rail, adding a creative twist to the space. Cecilie also curated a series of still life photographs made by Josefine Seifert, a long-time campaign collaborator of Bahnsen.

Cecilie Bahnsen is now available to shop in store at Dover Street Market, London.

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