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CECILIE THORSMARK
CEO of Copenhagen Fashion Week
Cecilie Thorsmark, CEO of Copenhagen Fashion Week since 2018, has revolutionized the event into an industry leading platform by launching the "Reinventing Copenhagen Fashion Week" action plan in 2020, which requires minimum sustainability parameters for all brands on the official show schedule, making it the first fashion week globally to introduce such standards. Her efforts have garnered her inclusion in The BoF 500, honored by Fast Company, WWD, and Vogue Business. Her efforts have led to Copenhagen Fashion Week now being regarded as the “fifth fashion week” after New York, London, Paris and Milan, Thorsmark also serves as the Deputy Chair of the European Fashion Alliance.
Contributor: Adam Katz Sinding
Published October 2024
Q&A
What was the catalyst that launched your fashion career?
I grew up in a family immersed in creativity from nearly every corner of the arts—furniture design, costume design, ballet, music, film, architecture, you name it! We were all very drawn to culture and aesthetics, which sparked my fascination with everything from design to beauty and, of course, fashion.
Adding to that, my dad was an environmentalist who dedicated his career to the Ministry of Environment, so I was always encouraged to think about the impact of our choices on the planet. I’m sure this blend of creativity and environmental consciousness has shaped my perspective and passion for fashion. Therefore, when I graduated from Business School in 2009 with a master’s degree in marketing communications management—which included a master's thesis on the topic of, well, actually, Copenhagen Fashion Week—I knew I would seek a career within the fashion industry, and that’s how I landed my first job at the Danish Fashion Institute.
That’s one of those very rare stories where a person is dealt the right cards in life and follows the path provided. I love that. Did you ever think about another trajectory in life?
It was never specifically Copenhagen Fashion Week for me, but I was very determined to work in the fashion industry. So, while there could have been different paths within the industry, fashion was always the direction.
Is there a particular city that you feel invigorates you?
As much as I love traveling and have a special affection for cities like New York, Paris, and Tokyo, I find that Copenhagen actually inspires me the most. The city’s dynamic creative scene and strong community resonate with my interests, my personality and my values. But it’s also the sense of home that really fuels my energy from living here. I think I’m the typical extroverted introvert who thrives on connecting with people and going out and about in the city, but also really values – and needs! - the time at home.
I can second that opinion! Waking up on a Sunday morning to quiet streets is not something most capital cities offer.
It’s funny you mention the quiet streets on a Sunday morning! That’s my favorite part too, and I was seconds from saying that before. Strolling down Værnedamsvej on a Sunday morning is so peaceful - even with three kids and a talkative husband as my entourage.
Jeramiah Irwin, @jerairwin
The Jersey City–based designer attended Afropunk for the first time last year, and the festival’s accepting ethos made him come back again this year. “I love festivals in general, but this one to me is so different. Everyone is so friendly. There’s no judgment,” he says. “It’s really true what they say—the no sexism, no homophobia here.” And given the opportunity to fully express himself, Jeremiah chose a denim corset and ripped jeans that were inspired by the pop-country music he’s been listening to. Says Irwin, “I was going to wear a cowboy hat, but I’m saving that for later.”
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Q&A
Who or what has been a defining influence in shaping your career path?
Definitely Eva Kruse, the founder of the Danish Fashion Institute, Copenhagen Fashion Week, and Global Fashion Agenda. She was my former boss and mentor for many years, and today she’s a cherished friend. Eva’s visionary approach to the fashion industry, particularly her commitment to sustainability, has had a profound impact on my career, and she was really the one who taught me the importance of aligning passion with purpose. Her support and belief in my potential pushed me to step out of my former role at the Global Fashion Agenda and pursue the role of CEO of Copenhagen Fashion Week. Today she continues to inspire me—and next week we’ll actually be sharing the stage at New York Climate Week in a conversation about sustainability in the fashion industry, moderated by Sophia Li.
What key opportunities or obstacles are presented in your current role?
One of the biggest opportunities I see is undoubtedly the growing emphasis on sustainability and ethical practices in fashion. At Copenhagen Fashion Week, we’ve taken a proactive approach by implementing Sustainability Requirements that all brands must comply with to be accepted on the show schedule. It’s very simple and straightforward to me: We all need to take responsibility and take action in pushing for more sustainability in our industry. We need to make bold decisions; otherwise, we are not getting anywhere. We’ve been talking A LOT about sustainability in our industry for the last couple of decades, but we’ve only seen the environmental impact of our industry rise to alarming levels. So, there’s no excuse.
You told me before about one of the brands that show at CPHFW taking initiative to exceed requirements. Have you ever had any situations where brands pushed back?
We actually haven’t encountered much pushback. Most brands have been receptive and eager to align with our commitment to sustainability, and many see it as an opportunity to get inspired, learn, and find motivation to accelerate their efforts.
If you had to choose a signature piece that defines your style right at the moment, what would it be?
A blazer, for sure. I think it’s the most versatile item in any wardrobe, allowing you to elevate your look while also adapting to different occasions. You can wear the same blazer and dress it down with jeans and flats for a casual everyday look, or you can pair it with a skirt and heels, for example, to create a more elegant or elevated look.
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