This summer, I spent four unforgettable days exploring Copenhagen with my boys. Between indulging in countless pastries and swimming in the harbor, one thing kept capturing my attention: the effortlessly cool street style of Copenhagen’s women. From classic pinstripes to cozy fisherman sweaters, the city’s fashion was a perfect blend of timeless pieces and casual ease.
Inspired by what I saw, I wanted to share six standout styles I noticed on the streets, featuring some gorgeous pieces from Madewell’s latest collection—which, by the way, is currently on a fantastic sale. If you’re thinking about refreshing your wardrobe for fall, keep reading!
1. The Oversized Blue Pinstripe Shirt
One of the most iconic looks I spotted was the vertical blue pinstripe, worn on everything from shirts to shorts by both women and men. What makes this trend so wearable is the oversized fit, which steers clear of stuffy office vibes and instead feels perfectly relaxed for city adventures. Think soft cotton with drop shoulders that move with ease.
Madewell’s take on this classic is playful yet sophisticated, and if blue isn’t your thing, they also offer striped options in toffee, green, and pink hues. The stripes add just enough interest without overwhelming the outfit—ideal for mixing and matching with your favorite basics.
2. The Drapey, Laid-Back Trench Coat
Copenhagen mornings were crisp, and the cafés buzzed with women wrapped in trench coats, savoring cardamom buns. The trench, a perennial symbol of timeless elegance, was everywhere—and always styled with a modern twist.
Madewell’s double-breasted trench is a great example: water repellent and effortlessly chic. What I found interesting was that most people wore their trenches loose and unbelted, embracing a more laid-back, flowy silhouette. For a retro flair, the denim trench—reminiscent of the ’70s—is another fantastic layering piece to consider.
3. Cream-Colored Sweaters Perfect for Fall
There was something so inviting about the cream knits I saw all over the city. Whether it was a bomber jacket layered over jeans or a soft V-neck cardigan perfect for dinner out, these pieces felt like a warm hug against the chill.
Madewell’s collection has you covered here with lightweight pullovers (also available with stripes) and even a sweater dress that looks ideal for transitioning into cooler months. These are the kinds of knits you want to reach for time and again, whether at home or on the go.
4. Chunky Loafers with a Modern Edge
Footwear-wise, chunky loafers paired with short white socks were everywhere—and it was all kinds of cool. This combo brings a subtle unisex vibe, with a hint of ‘90s nostalgia that makes me think of Elaine Benes from Seinfeld.
My favorite picks include lug-sole loafers that add a bit of rugged charm and penny loafers with cushioned soles, perfect for long walks or podcast listening sessions this fall. They strike the perfect balance between comfort and style.
5. Baggy, Wide-Leg Jeans
Slouchy pants ruled the streets, especially wide-leg jeans with high waists and pretty pleats—details that made my heart skip a beat. Light denim was by far the most popular, adding to the casual, airy feel that suited the city’s vibe perfectly.
These jeans are versatile enough to wear year-round and pair wonderfully with everything from fitted shirts to oversized sweaters, making them a must-have for a relaxed yet polished look.
6. Effortless Midi Dresses for Day or Night
On our final evening, as we walked to get ice cream, I admired couples dining al fresco with views of the bustling street—and the dresses women wore were stunning. Long, casual midi dresses in soft fabrics, like polka-dot gauze, looked both cinematic and approachable.
These dresses are travel-friendly (hello, wrinkle resistance!) and would be easy to dress up with a bold red lip for winter dinners or keep simple for daytime outings. They embody that understated elegance Copenhagen style is known for.
Final Thoughts and a Great Sale Alert
Would you wear any of these trends? Or perhaps you already do? I love how these looks combine classic staples with a fresh, modern sensibility. To sweeten the deal, Madewell is currently offering 25% off sitewide for Insiders, and an even bigger 30% off for Stars & Icons through September 27th. Joining their Insider program is free and comes with perks like free shipping and exclusive discounts.
If you’re inspired to refresh your wardrobe with a bit of Copenhagen flair, now’s a perfect time to shop—and maybe pick up that oversized pinstripe shirt or slouchy jeans you’ve been eyeing.
This post is sponsored by Madewell, a brand we’ve trusted and loved for years. Thanks for supporting the brands that support us!
With these six styles in your rotation, you’ll be ready to channel that cool, laid-back Copenhagen vibe wherever you go this fall.
