Copenhagen Fashion Week: Leading the Charge for Sustainable Fashion

By Unity Saunders

Models at the GANNI show 

Copenhagen Fashion Week (CPHFW) may not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of luxury fashion, but it is undeniably at the forefront of a revolution: sustainability in the fashion industry. This year, the buzz around sustainability reached new heights, solidifying CPHFW's status as a pioneer in eco-conscious practices. 

As one of the first major fashion weeks to implement and enforce strict sustainability standards, CPHFW has set a powerful precedent. The event met its sustainability requirements for the second year, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to minimising climate impact, resource consumption, and waste. This proactive approach is a model that other fashion events around the globe are beginning to emulate. 

From the Rotate SS25 runway show. Photo: Polina Vinogradova

A highlight of this year’s festivities was the exciting announcement that Birger Christensen Collective, a local fashion collective, earned the prestigious B Corp certification. This accolade signifies a rigorous commitment to social and environmental responsibility, aligning with the overarching ethos of CPHFW. 

At the heart of CPHFW's sustainability initiative are the Minimum Standards, which every participating brand must meet. These standards focus on six essential areas: 

 - Strategic Direction 

 - Design 

 - Smart Material Choices 

 - Working Conditions 

 - Consumer Engagement 

 - Show Production 

These criteria ensure that brands engage in responsible creativity across all areas of their operations. But CPHFW doesn’t stop at the basics. The event encourages brands to strive for even greater sustainability with 31 Additional Actions focused on social responsibility. While these actions aren’t mandatory for participation, they serve as valuable guidelines for brands looking to enhance their eco-friendly practices. This forward-thinking mindset empowers designers to innovate in ways that benefit both society and the environment. 

The influence of CPHFW is palpable. Other fashion events, such as Berlin Fashion Week, are taking note and starting to adopt similar sustainability measures. Now, brands that wish to showcase their collections must meet specific sustainability benchmarks, illustrating a serious commitment to reducing the fashion industry's environmental footprint. 

Cecilie Thorsmark

Cecilie Thorsmark, CEO of CPHFW, emphasises that this continuous push for higher standards reflects both the evolving fashion landscape and the changing EU policy environment. Her vision ensures that CPHFW is not just a reactive player but an active shaper of trends, keeping sustainability at the core of fashion's future. 

As the fashion industry grapples with its impact on the environment, Copenhagen Fashion Week stands out as a beacon of hope and innovation. With each passing year, it inspires brands to embrace sustainability—not just as a buzzword, but as a foundational principle. So, whether you’re a designer, a consumer, or simply a fashion enthusiast, let’s champion the movement toward a more sustainable future. Together, we can make a difference—one step at a time.