Copenhagen Fashion Week AW26 launches one of the most important seasons in the event’s history as it officially enters its 20th anniversary year in 2026. The January edition brings together established Nordic labels, emerging designers, and international award finalists in a program that reflects how far the region’s fashion industry has come.
The AW26 season is set to run from January 27 to 29, with special anniversary events taking place throughout the week. From newcomer showcases to returning global brands, this edition highlights Copenhagen’s role as a serious creative and business hub in European fashion.
Copenhagen Fashion Week Celebrates 20 Years in 2026
The year 2026 marks two decades since Copenhagen Fashion Week began shaping the Nordic fashion scene. Over the years, the event has grown from a regional industry gathering into a platform with global attention.
Cecilie Thorsmark, Chief Executive Officer of Copenhagen Fashion Week, described the anniversary as a moment for reflection and renewal.
“Twenty years is more than a milestone. It is a reminder of responsibility. Fashion is changing, and Copenhagen Fashion Week must continue to push creativity, responsibility, and opportunity for designers.”
Both the January and August editions in 2026 will feature international projects, partnerships, and cultural programs. The anniversary year will close with a large creative event and the release of a book documenting 20 years of Nordic fashion history.
Copenhagen Fashion Week AW26 Official Brand Line Up
The January edition will feature a strong mix of returning brands and new names that reflect the changing nature of modern fashion.
Some of the highlights include:
- Holzweiler, returning through the newly created Homecoming Slot
- Paolina Russo, winner of the 2024 Zalando Visionary Award
- Nazzal Studio, winner of the FTA Franca Sozzani Debut Talent Award
- O. Files, a new Danish menswear brand making its official debut
The Homecoming Slot is a new initiative that allows brands with historical ties to Copenhagen to return after building international recognition.
Copenhagen Fashion Week AW26 And The CPHFW NEWTALENT Designers
Copenhagen Fashion Week AW26 NEWTALENT Program
The NEWTALENT program continues to support rising designers by providing funding, mentoring, and international exposure.
For AW26, the selected designers are:
- Stem, newly accepted into the program
- Anne Sofie Madsen, presenting a second season
- Bonnetje, completing the program with a final showcase
In addition, three designers have been named as One To Watch for the upcoming season:
- Studio Constance
- Sson
- Taus
All three will present their collections during the January edition through runway shows and showcase formats.
The NEWTALENT program is supported by Pandora, with CIFF and Pandora serving as official partners.
Copenhagen Fashion Week AW26 Welcomes Holzweiler Back Home
Holzweiler becomes the first brand to be selected for the Homecoming Slot. This new position within the official schedule is designed for brands that began their journey in Copenhagen and now operate globally.
The decision highlights Copenhagen Fashion Week’s commitment to long term creative relationships and to supporting designers not only at the start of their careers, but also as they grow internationally.
Copenhagen Fashion Week AW26 Zalando Visionary Award 2026 Finalists
Three brands have been named as finalists for the Zalando Visionary Award 2026:
- Institution from Georgia
- KYLE HO from the United Kingdom
- Milk of Lime from Belgium and Germany
The finalists were selected based on their approach to design, sustainability, and cultural impact.
The winner will be announced on January 28 during Copenhagen Fashion Week. The awarded brand will present its Spring Summer 2027 collection on the official runway in August.
Fashion week guests will also be invited to see a selected display of designs from the finalists and attend a public discussion hosted by Giuliano Calza, Founder and Creative Director of GCDS.
This season is not just another fashion event. It signals a shift toward a more responsible and thoughtful fashion industry.
Copenhagen Fashion Week is known for setting clear sustainability requirements for brands and encouraging long term thinking in design.
With its 20th anniversary year now underway, the event continues to prove that fashion can be creative, commercial, and responsible at the same time.
