Yoko Maja Hansen and Anna Myntekær are the creative minds behind the Danish brand, Bonnetje, which was founded in 2021. The brand recently showcased its collection at Copenhagen Fashion Week for the second time, garnering attention for its unique approach to fashion. Bonnetje, which means “receipt” in Dutch, takes inspiration from the discovery of an old receipt found in the pocket of a suit. This serendipitous find led to the brand’s ethos of deconstructing and repurposing secondhand and vintage suits into innovative and stylish garments.
The Origin Story of Bonnetje
Hansen and Myntekær’s journey with Bonnetje began with a simple receipt found in the pocket of a suit. This discovery served as a symbolic link to the past, connecting the designers with the history of the garment and the former owner. The suit was from the Netherlands, where Hansen and Myntekær crossed paths while studying at Gerrit Rietveld Academie in Amsterdam. This serendipitous encounter with the receipt inspired them to delve deeper into the world of deconstructed fashion, giving new life to old materials and transforming masculine uniforms into feminine pieces.
The Evolution of Bonnetje
Initially, the designers experimented with combining old shirts and sweatshirts, but it was the allure of suits that captivated them. The high quality and craftsmanship of suits intrigued Hansen and Myntekær, prompting them to explore the potential of these garments in their designs. Thrift shops became their treasure troves, providing an abundance of suits waiting to be repurposed. The decision to work with the masculine uniform of the suit and infuse it with a feminine touch became the hallmark of Bonnetje’s aesthetic.
Drawing from Experience
Before embarking on their own venture with Bonnetje, Hansen gained experience working at Maison Margiela with John Galliano, while Myntekær interned for a couturiere in Paris before joining Cecilie Bahnsen. Their diverse backgrounds in the fashion industry equipped them with the skills and knowledge to bring their vision to life. Returning to Copenhagen, they seized the opportunity to create a brand that reflected their unique perspective on fashion and sustainability.
The Bonnetje SS25 Collection
For their second collection, Bonnetje presented a runway show inspired by the chaos of an airport security line. Models strutted down a zigzag runway created by retractable belt stanchions, embodying the hurried pace of travelers rushing through security. Each garment in the collection was a testament to the designers’ creativity and ingenuity, transforming traditional suits into avant-garde pieces. Shirts made of pants, pants made of shirts, and unexpected details like luggage handles and baggage locks added a playful yet sophisticated touch to the collection.
Challenging the Norm
Bonnetje’s aesthetic diverges from the typical Copenhagen style known for its quirky, feminine, and youthful designs. With a dark and edgy palette, the brand showcases the versatility of Scandinavian fashion, proving that sustainability and innovation can coexist in the industry. By upcycling secondhand materials and reimagining them into new creations, Bonnetje stays true to its Danish roots while pushing boundaries and redefining traditional norms of fashion.
A Vision for the Future
As Bonnetje gains recognition and acclaim, the designers are focused on expanding their brand and reaching a wider audience. With plans to collaborate with retailers and make their designs more accessible to consumers, Hansen and Myntekær are committed to preserving the essence of Bonnetje while evolving and growing as a brand. Each piece will remain unique and sustainable, embodying the brand’s ethos of repurposing and reinventing fashion for a new generation of conscious consumers.
In Conclusion
Bonnetje’s journey from a chance discovery of a receipt to a prominent presence at Copenhagen Fashion Week exemplifies the brand’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and creativity. Hansen and Myntekær’s vision for Bonnetje transcends traditional fashion boundaries, offering a fresh perspective on deconstructed design and upcycled materials. As the brand continues to evolve and expand, its unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and sustainability sets it apart in the competitive world of fashion. Bonnetje is not just a brand; it’s a testament to the transformative power of creativity and the enduring appeal of repurposed fashion.