Cecilie Jorgensen is one of those spontaneous, confident & on-the-go women who can tackle just about anything: including launching her own stunning “Cecilie Copenhagen” label on a whim. The latter offers comfortable yet playful pieces –adorned with keffiyeh– which are available at Boutique 1 in Beirut and Dubai.
We sat down with the lovely Danish designer to find out how it all started and where it’s heading.
How did Cecilie Copenhagen first take shape?
Very quickly I believe. The first shirt I made was just because I had a clothing crisis before a night out and I thought it looked cool, it was never made with business in mind. But after that night, the next couple of week’s mails kept coming in asking me how to get the shirt. That’s pretty much how it all started.
You are now sold at Boutique 1 in Dubai/Beirut. What does the Middle East mean to you?
We are super excited to start up in the Middle East! And especially in such a great store as Boutique 1. For me personally, I do not have a greater experience with the Middle East but through friends and from what I am hearing it seems to be a very interesting place.
Have you ever been to the Middle East? Where’s your favorite place?
I have only been to Dubai when I was a young girl, but I am looking forward to finding my favorite places now after we started working with Boutique 1!
The Keffiyeh is very present in your designs. What made you choose this pattern? Does it hold any symbolism?
Absolutely not. To me I found the pattern very inspiring and super cool. I have always loved patterns and when I made the first shirt, I made them out of scarfs, which I found in the basement at my parents’ house.
Is your Arab clientele, in particular, drawn to it?
It is difficult for me to answer simply because I don’t know for sure. I mean, we can see an increase in our numbers from the Middle East market but I don’t know if our Arab clientele are more drawn to it more that others.
How do you get inspired for a new collection?
It’s difficult to explain in words because a lot of different things inspire me. For my process when I need inspiration for a new collection I observe as much as I can. It can be things like a cool girl walking down the street. It could be art, music, cultures, colors, architecture, and graphics. I love to travel and travel as much as possible – I love to explore and meet new cultures around the world.
Who is the Cecilie woman?
Women, who are confident, have an identity and are not afraid of something new.
Do you have any advice for young up and coming designers?
Most important thing is that you believe in it 100% - also do not be afraid of making mistakes. It will happen, but don’t look back, keep on going!
What is your typical workday outfit?
Comfortable clothes works best for me but it also needs to work for a spontaneous situation or event because my working days never look the same.
Do you have any signature style elements you wear regularly?
Coats and flats!
Who is your style icon?
No one particular – I take in inspiration from a lot of different people.
What is the one thing you could never travel without?
My sketchbook.
Leonore Dicker
