STYLE

The Copenhagen Blouse Trend Has Us Ready For “Scandi-Girl” Summer

30/05/2024

Ask any fashion lover what major city they’re looking to for outfit inspiration these days, and you may be surprised to learn that it’s no longer Paris, New York, or Los Angeles—it’s Copenhagen. The capital of Denmark has not-so-quietly disrupted the style scene with an eclectic mix of aesthetics that range from chic, clean lines and quirky styles that spark a youthful sense of freedom. From close-to-the-body quilted vests and billowy linen pants to chunky cable knits and oversized “dad” sneakers, the Scandinavian style aesthetic is all about voluminous proportions and silhouettes. Arguably, the easiest (and trendiest) way to play with volume right now is by trying the Copenhagen blouse this “Scandi-girl” summer.

Characterized by an open front with ties, the Copenhagen blouse has been spotted on social media darlings and editors from all over the globe—and for good reason. The top is available in just about every color, pattern, fabric, and sleeve, making it completely adaptable to your personal style. There’s an add-to-cart-instantly buzz around this shirt that makes it so special—and worthy of a deep dive.

Ahead, we’re breaking down this wardrobe must-have’s undeniable appeal.

A close up of a woman wearing a white Sissel Edelbo Copenhagen top. — SISSEL EDELBO

About the Trend

As an idea, tie-front tops are nothing new. Hollywood starlets in the 1940s loved tying the bottom From then on, there are various cultural touchstones of the tie detail that we can point to, including Jodie Foster’s costuming in 1976’s Taxi Driver and Britney Spears’ school girl-inspired look in 1998’s “..Baby One More Time” music video. Nostalgic factors aside, while it can be argued that the Copenhagen blouse is the younger sister to the knotted tie-front style, the trendy top is more closely related to billowy peasant tops.

Peasant tops (aptly named for working-class women and farmers who often wore the garment) are primarily remembered throughout European history. However, more ornate versions of this puff-sleeved top featuring embroidery and beading can be seen in cultures such as Hungarian, Scandinavian, Ukrainian, Mexican, Russian, Roma, Greek, and Caribbean as well. This design reached notable popularity in the ’70s when Yves Saint Laurent presented a collection of drawstring blouses and long, full skirts that would come to be known as the—questionably named—”Rich Peasant” or “Peasant Chic” look. Since then, we’ve seen versions of the peasant blouse, with the most recent and closest to the original being that of the Copenhagen blouse.

In modern-day, Scandinavian influencers such as Matilda Djerf (the founder of Djerf Avenue), Pernille Rosenkilde, Hanna Stefansson, and Mathilde Gøhler champion the trends of Copenhagen, including the ribbon tie-front blouse. Danish brands like Ganni and Sissel Edelbo were among the early originators of the trend in late 2023 and early 2024, with retailers like H&M, Anthropologie, and Reformation soon taking notice and backing up the hype with similar designs.

A woman wearing a white copenhagen blouse and a white skirt. — DJERF AVENUE

The Appeal

The answer to why the fashion crowd loves Copenhagen blouses is clear: It’s easy to wear and simple to pair. From classic blue jeans and linen midi skirts to baggy shorts and pajama-like pants, the blouse makes an excellent outfit-starting or star accent piece. With warmer weather on the horizon, the material of clothing is key, too. And with the ribbon tie-front design being billowy, breezy, and breathable, it’s a no-brainer choice for spring and summer dressing.

A woman wearing a pink gigham and heart Sissel Edelbo Copenhagen top. — SISSEL EDELBO

How to Style

Despite its potentially intimidating boxy shape, the Copenhagen blouse is simple to style. It’s all about mixing and matching colors, materials, and proportions until you achieve an eclectic combo that is unique to you.

Fitting in with Copenhagen’s eclectic take on fashion, there’s no right or wrong way to style this piece. However, if you’re in need of some inspiration, look no further than the outfits ahead.

SHOP THE LOOK

Knock three trends off your “to try” list with just one look: This striped, heart-pocketed blouse and midi linen skirt accessorized with butter yellow ballet flats.

SHOP THE LOOK

When dressing for warm weather, cool is key. A cotton tie-front top, loose cotton pants (in a refreshing green gingham, no less), and an open-toed, Scandi-style wooden clog will help you beat the heat.

SHOP THE LOOK

Copenhagen blouses work great in casual outfits, too. In this outfit, we can see ourselves running errands and picking out summer flowers from the farmers market.