Jeanette Madsen and Thora Valdimars, the creative minds behind the fashion label Rotate, have much to celebrate this summer. Their brand recently showcased its Spring/Summer 2025 collection during Copenhagen Fashion Week at the Royal Library Garden. The new line blends Scandinavian minimalism with 1920s Art Deco influences, reflecting the designers’ free-spirited approach to fashion.
In addition to their successful runway show, Madsen and Valdimars opened Rotate’s first flagship store in the heart of Copenhagen. The store, designed by interior architect Thibaut Allgayer, features a chic blend of burgundy, wood, and chrome elements. This design creates a stylish, minimalist environment that aligns with Rotate’s aesthetic. These achievements not only bolster Rotate’s reputation in the fashion world but also spotlight Copenhagen as a key fashion destination.
Exploring Copenhagen with Rotate’s Founders
When asked where they would take a visitor first in Copenhagen, Madsen and Valdimars emphasize the city’s vibrant food scene. They recommend starting with a meal at the newly opened Bar Amore, known for its relaxed ambiance and excellent food.
For weekend activities, the founders suggest exploring the Vesterbro neighborhood. They enjoy visiting local spots like Pauseriet or Ipsen & Co. for coffee and pastries before browsing the independent shops in the area. Must-see stops include the eclectic design shop Dora, the curated bookshop Thiemers Magasin, the vintage store Tootsie, and Blomster Bjarne for seasonal flowers.
Why Copenhagen Stands Out
Madsen and Valdimars appreciate Copenhagen’s unique mix of energy and approachability. The city feels cosmopolitan yet remains small and easy to navigate, offering a casual, fun atmosphere where residents can be themselves. They also love the fact that biking is a primary mode of transportation, making the city both accessible and environmentally friendly.
For a stylish and authentic stay in Copenhagen, they recommend Sanders Hotel, a boutique hotel in central Copenhagen that offers an intimate and peaceful escape.
Dining and Shopping Favorites
When it comes to dining, Thora Valdimars favors Esmee for special occasions, especially the lobster pasta and green vegetable salad. Jeanette Madsen enjoys Locale 21, a newer restaurant with a street-facing terrace perfect for people-watching. The restaurant offers a set menu, allowing diners to sample a variety of dishes.
While neither of the founders is vegan, they note that Copenhagen has many restaurants offering vegan and vegetarian options. They recommend 42Raw for a quick lunch and Baka D’Busk for a fun vegetarian dinner.
For coffee, Madsen loves Beau Marche Cafe og Vins, where the coffee is always served in a nice cup and has a balanced flavor. Valdimars prefers her local spot, Københavns Bageri, in Carlsberg Byen.
Experiencing Copenhagen Like a Local
The founders highlight Copenhagen’s unique experiences, such as the long summer days when the sun rises early and sets late. The city’s location by the sea allows for swimming throughout the city, adding to its charm. The ability to bike everywhere is another aspect they find amazing.
For wellness, Thora recommends Amazing Space, a spa located in the D’Angleterre hotel, which offers a luxurious escape. Jeanette prefers One Thirty Labs for its wide range of treatments, including Cryotherapy, Compression Therapy, MMS, and Infrared Sauna.
For culture enthusiasts, Thora suggests visiting Copenhagen Contemporary, a modern art gallery in a giant warehouse at Refshaleøen, known for its unique exhibitions. Jeanette recommends a trip outside the city to the Louisiana Museum in Humlebæk, a modern art gallery with stunning coastal views.
Copenhagen’s Best-Kept Secrets
Madsen and Valdimars reveal that Copenhagen has some of the best flea markets, especially during the summer. These markets, held throughout the city, are a treasure trove for secondhand clothing, interior design, and furniture. While they might not be well-known to tourists, they are a staple for locals.
For street style, the founders note that each central Copenhagen borough has its distinct vibe. Nørrebro tends to have a more casual, vintage-inspired style, Østerbro is more preppy, and Copenhagen K is a blend of everything.
Essentials for a Copenhagen Visit
Lastly, they advise anyone visiting Copenhagen in the summer to be prepared for unpredictable weather. An umbrella and SPF are essentials. Copenhagen style is about mixing casual and dressy pieces, so they recommend bringing fun items from your wardrobe, and no summer look in the city is complete without a pair of Havaianas.
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