Established in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarterback in 1993, Scandi favourites Samsøe Samsøe epitomises the brand’s simple, understated approach to design and meticulous attention on material, and craftsmanship.
In its relatively short life, Samsøe Samsøe has transformed from a modest jewellery brand operating out of Copenhagen to an international fashion house. Rooted in a rich heritage of Scandinavian design, the brand has a cult following for simple, functional, modern clothing. Combining the utilitarian energy of Copenhagen street style with Scandinavia’s timeless creative spirit. Its collections typically defy fleeting seasonal trends, instead drawing on Denmark’s renowned design traditions with an identifiable Nordic blueprint.
Launching Samsøe Samsøe collection, we sat down with the Head Designers for both men's and womenswear to discuss the creative process, inspiration, and more.
Thankyou for taking the time to talk to us today! Tell us a little bit about yourselves...
My name is Gitte Wetter, and I am the Head of menswear for Samsøe Samsøe. My journey with the brand has been long since I have been working for the company for the past 14 years. Tt almost feels like Samsøe Samsøe has become my second family. Before that, I work several years with my own label and for other brands in the industry.
My name is Meme Marta Fagiuoli originally from Italy but grew up in several countries such as the US & UK, I relocated in Copenhagen about 10 years ago to work as Head of Design for another Scandinavian Brand. Having held my former role for many years, I felt it was time to challenge myself with a new opportunity, and that's why I started at Samsøe Samsøe 2 years ago.
Talk us through the ethos behind Samsøe Samsøe?
G & M: Samsøe Samsøe is defined by a wearable aesthetic that combines the utilitarian energy of today's street style with a quintessentially Scandinavian spirit. Our collections draw upon our region’s renowned design traditions to result in sophisticated garments with a modern twist. The collections always focus on fit, sustainability, and quality.
Can you talk us through the design process and inspiration?
G&M: We are lucky to have a creative and diverse design team, where each individual brings their own aesthetic to the table. The process often starts with a trip somewhere - this could be an art exhibition in Denmark, traveling to Tokyo, or London's vintage markets. This depends on what we want to be inspired by that season.The design team will subsequently have a workshop where inspiration, art, pictures, cultures, colors, silhouettes and more will be brought to the table. Together we then decide the season's theme/direction followed up by fabrics, shapes, and silhouettes. It is always a very inspiring, but also exciting week for the entire team.
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the fashion industry. Can you talk us through any sustainable initiatives?
G: What is important for us is to have a solid CSR strategy, to make sure that we create outstanding garments that our customers can wear and value for many years. Therefore, we are offering a responsible product range that are meeting our responsibility ambitions. This work involves several elements, including elevating design and craftsmanship, which means our garments are made from carefully chosen materials for long-lasting purposes.
M: Definitely! We have ambitious goals and high standards when it comes to sustainability as a brand. We are constantly working on becoming the better version of ourselves, knowing that sustainability has many different aspects. Some of the initiatives we take are a high-standard material strategy, recycling and repair projects, Low Impact Denim, creating a healthy corporate culture, and designing long-lasting items that are inclusive in terms of fit and style offering. Sustainability is a multifaceted and complicated topic, which makes it very challenging and exciting!
The brand is well known for its exceptional craftsmanship. Can you talk us through any materials or techniques used to achieve such high-quality garments?
G&M: We strive to use the best possible fabrications at the best fair and accessible price, I believe this has been a key point of the brand's success. We have a talented team of designers, buyers, and pattern makers, with true dedication to the product. They also have a close relationship with our suppliers and other partners so secure the best result possible for our garments.
What have been some of the most memorable moments or pieces you've designed and what made them special?
G: Arghh - that is almost impossible to answer! We have done so many amazing and special pieces during the years and every year we create new darlings together.M: In the last couple of years we have put a very strong focus on this idea of Inclusive Design: meaning that we want to make sure that in each product category, We have styles that cater to the needs of different styles and bodies, staying true to the brand aesthetics and that have made me the proudest!
If you were to suggest one item for our readers, that they need for a lasting wardrobe, what would it be?
G: A knitted jumper in high quality is an essential piece in a lasting wardrobe. We are just introducing this new RWS-certified wool program, both for women and men. It is in a variety of silhouettes which is a new classic for Samsøe Samsøe.M: Indeed! A soft beautiful, knitted sweater and a good classic wool coat would be my go-to for essential timeless pieces.
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Written by Holly Thompson
