Buying Trips Diary: Copenhagen in 48 Hours

21 August 2025

Helen and I have just returned from a whistle-stop visit to Copenhagen on a research trip for next year’s Spring/Summer style. Spending a few summer days in Denmark is certainly nothing to complain about, and I’ve loved every moment, but it was also super busy. We’ve been picking up the newest trends and hand-selecting beautiful items for our Richmond boutique for next year. There’s lots of exciting changes coming, so keep reading for details on the next biggest fashion trends!

48 Hours in Copenhagen

Outside the Copenhagen International Fashion Fair

Day 1

After flying into Copenhagen at lunchtime on Wednesday, we were straight off to the Copenhagen International Fashion Fair (CIFF), which was showing stock for Spring/Summer 2026. Our aim during this visit was to trend shop, predict what our customers will love over the next year, and connect with our current designers and meet new ones.

Later that afternoon, we were whizzed off to a meeting at the stunning Dea Kudibal offices where we admired beautiful silk styles in geometric prints. Dea Kudibal is one of the most popular designers we stock, so I’m always excited to see what they’ve got in store, and I don’t think you’ll be disappointed! You can sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know when that season arrives.

After an incredibly busy day, it was time to treat ourselves to dinner at Bistro Central before heading back to my fabulous accommodation, The Phoenix Hotel. If you’re ever visiting Copenhagen, I highly recommend this hotel, which is so close to the centre of the city as well as the famous harbour. They also serve a delicious buffet breakfast.

Day 2

Thursday is another busy day at the CIFF trade show - we don’t even sit down for lunch!

But we make up for it in the evening with drinks and dinner at Cafe Victor, which is a bit of an institution with the fashion crowd. You can often see designers relaxing and having drinks with friends.

Day 3

Day 3 left time for a bit of sightseeing, so first thing in the morning I hired a bike for 150 krone (about £18) for the full day. Then I headed off for a dip at the famous Islands Brygge Harbour Bath! This is something I’ve wanted to do for 15 years but have never felt brave enough, but this summer I (literally) took the plunge and am certain it will be the first of many; I am totally converted. Everyone was soaking up the glorious morning sunshine and it was a fabulous way to start the day.

There was then time for a sandwich in the Royal Park before a sunny cycle around all my favourite shops: Isabel Marant, Munthe, ILLUM Department Store, FANNIA and - my favourite interior shop - Carl Hansen & Son.

Sadly, by then it was time to lock up my bicycle, pack up my suitcase and head back to the airport. But it was only a 20 minute ride on the metro, so it was nice and easy to get to.

Spring/Summer Season 2026 Predictions

I always absolutely love checking out upcoming styles and designs, and this trip to Copenhagen was no different. So what can we expect from the Spring/Summer Season 2026?

Well, there’s definitely going to be lots of skirts, both pencil and easy long to midi-lengths. Separates are going to be all the rage and I hardly saw any dresses - quite the change from 2025, when dresses have been very popular.

Colour-wise there was plenty of yellow, in particular a soft butter shade and a pale nearly-lemon neon. A spectrum of greens was also prominent, as well as plenty of pink and orange. We’ll be wearing these with soft neutrals like camel and putty so that the colours can really speak for themselves.

There’s also going to be a strong jacket trend and we’ll see plenty of short-sleeve knitwear - a style that’s already starting to pop up from some designers. Prints are less important, with texture being brought through the fabric instead.

All-in-all, it’s going to be a great season and we’re looking forward to an exciting summer 2026!