Fashion: Marimekko Spring/Summer ’24 catwalk celebrates its iconic "Unikko" pattern at Copenhagen Fashion Week

One of the many well-known names showing during Copenhagen Fashion Week, which was held  August 7 to 10 2023, is the Finnish fashion and lifestyle brand, Marimekko, renowned for its distinctive and bold design aesthetic that fuses vibrant colors, bold patterns, and a sense of timeless simplicity. 

Marimekko's iconic prints and patterns are often inspired by nature, folk art, and the modernist design movement.  By fusing bold design, functionality, and cultural heritage,  Marimekko's gained a global following for its timeless style.

In presenting Marimekko's Spring/Summer ’24 collection, which was shown on the runway at Designmuseum Danmark in Copenhagen, the brand is also celebrating the 60th anniversary in 2024 of its most iconic floral print design "Unikko" that features large-scale, abstract poppy flowers, now an emblematic symbol of the brand.

Today the Unikko pattern and its bank of bold signature patterns and colours are found on a wide range of lifestyle products, including bags and accessories, home textiles, tableware, and even furniture.

True to its DNA, Marimekko's SS24 collection merges feminine minimalism with modern utilitarian workwear, both equally representative of the rich design heritage at Marimekko, characterized by clean lines, functional silhouettes, and the use of bold, eye-catching prints. The designs prioritize comfort and wearability while maintaining a sense of artistic expression. 

The brand's name, "Marimekko," translates to "Mary's Dress" in Finnish, reflecting its origin in textile and clothing design.  

Founded in 1951 by Armi Ratia and her husband Viljo Ratia, Marimekko quickly gained international recognition for its innovative approach to design, becoming a symbol of Finnish design excellence and creativity.

Today the brand trumpets its commitment to responsible sourcing of materials and ethical production methods, aligning with its values of quality, longevity, and respect for nature. 

Extending its influence beyond its native Finland, the brand has a global presence, with flagship stores in major cities and collaborations with various designers and brands. 

Copenhagen Fashion Week  is the go-to event for the latest trends in Scandinavian fashion, cutting-edge designs, with sustainability and ethical fashion as its central theme, and a unique platform for both established and emerging designers to present their collections to a global audience of fashion enthusiasts, industry professionals, buyers, and press.  

The twice-a-year event has gained international recognition for its strong emphasis on promoting environmentally conscious practices and responsible production within the fashion industry.  This focus aligns with the region's reputation for prioritizing eco-friendly and socially responsible approaches to design and manufacturing.

Photos from Copenhagen Fashion Week August 2023