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subscribe to style file blog via RSSchris benz’s copenhagen diary
June 30, 2008 8:26 am
Everyone who comes to Copenhagen loves the city, the people, and the sense of “hygge” (a untranslatable term that means a propensity for comfort, domesticity, and the hearth), which can be seen in just about everything, including the casual effortlessness of the Danish lifestyle, design, textiles, food (think: cheese!), and, of course, architecture. There is an overwhelming seaside vibe as well. Bicycles are how the majority of people get around—all-black bicycles with hand-woven rattan baskets are everywhere, and unbelievably chic.
From Copenhagen proper, I departed for the Saga Fur Design Centre in the Danish countryside. The first night here coincided with the Midsummer Night’s Festival, in which everyone gathers on the seashore to burn witch effigies in huge bonfires. No one could give me a good explanation of this holiday, but in some way it marks the summer solstice.
I spent the week with a terrific group of other designers: Rim Kalai of Fendi, Mathilde Torp Mader of Sonia Rykiel, and Elizabeth Kennedy of Isaac Mizrahi. It was all about talking fashion, spawning creativity, imagination, and laughter. Each night we’d gather around the teak tables on the terrace for dinner (the Centre comes complete with an in-house chef!). After dinner, we’d go twirling through the property like dilettantes on holiday, carrying fur blankets, taking photos, and being mischievous.
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