The End of the Safe Stripe
For years, the stripe's role in our wardrobe was simple. A Breton top with jeans, a pinstripe shirt for the office—they were reliable, classic, and, let's be honest, a little bit safe. But the attendees of Copenhagen Fashion Week SS27 have declared those
days over. Across the city’s cobbled streets, stripes were everywhere, but not as we know them. They were loud, experimental, and used with a kind of creative confidence that felt entirely new. This wasn't just a trend revival; it was a complete reinterpretation of what a stripe can do. The message was clear: stripes are no longer a quiet neutral but a primary tool for self-expression.
Clash of the Patterns
One of the most noticeable shifts was the complete abandonment of the old rule about mixing prints. The Scandi style set demonstrated a fearless approach, pairing stripes with… well, more stripes. Vertical striped trousers were seen with horizontal striped knits, and diagonal striped accessories were thrown in for good measure. The key to avoiding a chaotic look, as seen on the streets, was maintaining a connected color story. A look featuring navy, white, and red stripes in varying directions and widths felt cohesive and interesting, not confusing. This styling trick creates a visual tension that keeps the eye moving, making outfits feel more dynamic and high-fashion. It’s a confident move that proves stripes can be the main event, not just a supporting act.
Beyond the Breton
While the classic blue-and-white Breton is eternal, Copenhagen's fashion crowd explored a much wider spectrum. Stripes appeared on everything from low-waisted trousers and football jerseys to elegant pencil skirts and cardigans. Wide, bold, colourful stripes were particularly prominent, replacing polka dots as the pattern of the moment. Think chunky bands of contrasting colours on relaxed trousers or vibrant, sporty track stripes adding a modern edge to tailored pants. The classic pinstripe also made a comeback, but in slouchier, more relaxed silhouettes like oversized blazers and wide-leg trousers, escaping its corporate-office reputation.
The Stripe as a Foundation
Perhaps the most wearable takeaway from Copenhagen was the idea of using stripes as a new kind of neutral. Instead of being the focal point, a simple striped long-sleeve tee or button-down shirt was used as a base layer under more statement-making pieces. A striped top might peek out from under a leather jacket, a colourful knit, or even a sheer dress. This approach adds a layer of visual interest and texture to an outfit without being overpowering. It’s a simple way to incorporate the trend, grounding bolder pieces like a fringed bag or brightly coloured mules, both of which were also popular trends at the event.
