Copenhagen Fashion Week CEO on Sustainability, Greenwashing Claims, and the Fifth Fashion Week

Copenhagen Fashion Week (CPHFW) returns for Spring/Summer 2026 in early August, maintaining its position as the world's first fashion week to mandate sustainability requirements via its Sustainability Action Plan. CEO Cecilie Thorsmark discusses the challenges of keeping sustainability central amid global crises, the importance of international collaborations with Oslo Runway, Norwegian Fashion Hub, Berlin Fashion Week, British Fashion Council, Amsterdam Fashion Week, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The Action Plan, introduced in 2020 and effective from AW23, includes 19 action points for brands, updated periodically. In February 2025, CPHFW and seven Danish brands were accused of greenwashing by the Danish Consumer Council and Continual consultancy, a complaint filed with the Danish consumer protection authority, which has not yet ruled. Thorsmark notes the complaint did not lead to a case or ruling and that CPHFW continuously strengthens its framework. The NEWTALENT program supports emerging Nordic designers with grants, visibility, and mentoring, and plans to build a patron program. CPHFW introduces a Guest Slot this season with Cecilie Bahnsen. The 20th anniversary is next year. Thorsmark emphasizes that sustainability requirements are entry criteria, not certification, and that CPHFW aims to be a democratic, civic platform open to the public.