You can’t talk about how the fashion world is evolving into more sustainable practices without mentioning Copenhagen Fashion Week. Also regarded as the “fifth global fashion week” alongside New York, London, Milan, and Paris, Copenhagen takes a firm stance on sustainability with its three-year Sustainability Action Plan, setting a standard for all brands to create pieces that positively contribute to the earth. Copenhagen Fashion Week featured 44 shows and presentations, staged at impressive venues from August 4–8, 2025.
The Danish capital is not just a regular fashion week—it gives designers full creative freedom in how they present their collections. Some creatives host dinners, parties, and even installations to showcase their latest work. This season saw an abundance of sensory marketing, with fashion and food brands collaborating. CPHFW was no exception, with many brands creating Instagram-ready pop-up cafés where spectators could grab a bite while experiencing the fashion. The week was also filled with new talent, giving designers the chance to open up new spaces for themselves. To be part of the schedule, designers must meet specific requirements. Among them was Bubu Ogisi, one of the newer creatives selected to present her work, rooted in wearable art made from preserved materials.
Zalando’s Visionary Award-winner Bubu Ogisi was a standout this season, presenting her brand Iamisigo’s S/S 2026 collection. Iamisigo is built on conscious craftsmanship, with each handmade piece telling an international story. Every garment incorporates endangered, traditional techniques that allow the brand to stay true to its history. In Copenhagen, Ogisi aimed to show the real meaning of “Made in Africa” through wearable art that reflects her history and heritage. Iamisigo debuted on Day 3 with a wide spectrum of textures and colors, creating not just a collection but an entire environment for the audience to experience.
Iamisigo’s use of Africa’s natural elements added uniqueness to the design process: fabric made from tree bark, traditional Nigerian dyers, Kenyan beadwork, and artisans from South Africa. Ogisi’s collection, titled “Dual Mandate,” reimagines the phrase “to protect and to perceive.” Materials such as cotton, jute, glass, metal, and sisal were transformed into garments that told a story of quiet resistance. Chain-like sheaths, towering headpieces, and woven silhouettes brought structure and movement, while brass and glass accessories—crafted with traditional methods—translated Africa’s legacy into fashion. Through these choices, Ogisi minimized her environmental footprint while honoring slow fashion, aligning perfectly with CPHFW’s values.
The collection took seven months to produce, requiring travel across the African continent to source materials and collaborate with local artisans. Since launching at Lagos Fashion Week in 2013, Iamisigo has continued to evolve its storytelling on global stages. Like many designers this season, inspiration leaned toward resort and springwear, with flip-flops, beaded styles, sheer dresses, and fringe details dominating the runways. But Ogisi’s commitment to heritage-driven, sustainable design set her apart. Her rebellious creations are meant to be worn, remembered, and respected—making her debut at Copenhagen Fashion Week a true testament to African craftsmanship and innovation.
Sources That Helped Bring This Article To You
- https://copenhagenfashionweek.com/about-us
- https://www.voguebusiness.com/story/fashion/why-nigerias-iamisigo-is-showing-at-copenhagen-fashion-week
- https://copenhagenfashionweek.com/brand/iamisigo
- https://www.voguebusiness.com/story/fashion/5-keytakeaways-from-copenhagen-fashion-week
