From 1999 to 2014, I designed the fashion collection Charlotte Østergaard Copenhagen. The collection grew from my deep fascination with pleating techniques. These methods allowed me to transform flat, one-dimensional textiles into sculptural, three-dimensional forms—garments that moved with the body and reshaped the fabric’s structure and surface.
A core value of the collection was an embrace of diversity—celebrating the uniqueness of each costumer and their bodies. Almost every garment was fitted to the needs of the specific costumer, guided by the belief that no one is too small or too large—every woman carries their own beauty.
Rather than following seasonal trends, the collection was grounded in craft traditions, focusing on functionality and aesthetic expression. Each piece was individually handmade in my studio and pleated by hand. The collection spanned from evening and bridal wear to the more everyday comPleat line. Below is an excerpt showcasing pieces from the collection.
From early on, the collection was produced and sold through Designer Zoo—a collective store with workshop space (1999–2013). For the final eight years (2006–2014), Charlotte Østergaard Copenhagen was based in my own studio and boutique located in the heart of Copenhagen. Below are photos from that space.
