Copenhagen Fashion Week has long been celebrated for producing some of the most wearable and influential street style on the global fashion calendar. The recent edition, held last week, powerfully reinforced this reputation, with sidewalks buzzing with outfits that masterfully blended practicality with directional flair. The Scandi aesthetic, known for its effortless yet intentional approach, was on full display, offering looks that felt immediately replicable rather than merely aspirational.
Seven Key Street Style Trends from Copenhagen Fashion Week
Below, we delve into the seven standout street style trends from CPFW that are already inspiring fashion enthusiasts to update their winter wardrobes with versatile, real-life pieces.
1. Statement Winter Coats as the Outfit Centerpiece
If Copenhagen street style has imparted one clear lesson, it is that winter coats have evolved from mere functional items to the focal point of an ensemble. This season, outerwear took centre stage, with oversized faux-fur coats in shaggy, cropped, and dramatic iterations alongside sharply tailored wool designs dominating the scene. The message was unequivocal: boring outerwear is firmly cancelled.
Styling these coats was equally noteworthy. Many looks kept underlying layers simple—think classic jeans, a cosy knit, and sturdy boots—allowing the coat to command attention. Others embraced contrast by pairing statement coats with casual hoodies or sneakers, achieving that coveted off-duty aesthetic.
2. Relaxed Power Tailoring with a Nostalgic Twist
Tailoring made a strong appearance on the streets, but not in a stiff, corporate manner. Instead, it exuded a relaxed, confident, and slightly nostalgic vibe. Boxy blazers with pronounced shoulders were ubiquitous, often paired with wide-leg or softly pleated trousers that grazed the ground for an intentional finish. Matching suit sets also emerged, styled to feel versatile rather than formal.
The emphasis was on structure, with fabrics like wool, tweed, and subtle pinstripes taking precedence over flimsier materials. A standout styling trick involved layering a sharp blazer with a scarf or wearing it under a tailored coat, encapsulating the peak FW26 energy.
3. Architectural Scarves, Shawls, and Capes
In Copenhagen, scarves transcended their traditional accessory role to become architectural elements. Extra-long scarves, wool wraps, and cape-like knits were layered over coats, wrapped asymmetrically, or even belted at the waist. This approach felt simultaneously cosy, practical, and fashion-forward.
The takeaway is clear: scarves are no longer just for warmth. They now shape outfits, add volume, and serve as that final, intentional layer that elevates a look.
4. Practical Footwear with Cool Appeal
Copenhagen excels at practical footwear that remains stylish, and this season was no exception. The focus was on boots you can actually walk in, including chunky shearling-lined styles (reminiscent of Ugg silhouettes), square-toe leather boots, and flat or low-heel designs. These were paired with trousers tucked in, maxi skirts featuring visible socks, and layered winter ensembles that prioritised comfort over polish.
The overall vibe was functional, confident, and refreshingly real-life, eschewing any sense of preciousness.
5. Headwear as an Outfit Multiplier
For those whose winter outfits feel incomplete, Copenhagen offers a simple solution: incorporate a hat. Berets, baker boy caps, wool headscarves, and vintage-inspired winter hats were everywhere, transforming even the most basic outfits into styled statements. A simple combination of a coat, jeans, and boots gained intentionality with the addition of a standout headpiece.
This small yet impactful detail is clearly favoured by street style insiders for its ability to elevate any look.
6. Emphasis on Texture Over Trends
If FW26 had a motto, it would be touchable over trendy. Texture played a pivotal role, with fringe appearing on bags, hems, and scarves, while faux-fur trims added softness. Fabrics like bouclé, brushed wool, and heavy knits provided outfits with depth and dimension.
The easiest way to adopt this trend is through accessories. A textured bag, a clip-on faux-fur collar, or a fringe scarf can instantly inject interest into existing wardrobes.
7. Thoughtful Tonal Dressing
In a surprising shift, all-black looks were relatively scarce. Instead, Copenhagen street style embraced colour in a considered manner. Red (both true and oxblood), caramel brown, and head-to-toe grey were particularly popular, with acid brights used sparingly as accents.
The prevalent formula involved a neutral base paired with one bold element, or full tonal dressing—such as all brown, all grey, or all cream. This approach felt fresh, modern, and highly wearable for the winter season.
