Sophie Bille Brahe's guide to shopping in Copenhagen

Sophie Bille Brahe knows Danish style better than almost anyone. The jewellery designer, who launched her namesake brand in 2011, is famous for her playful fine jewellery and pearl designs, which take a sometimes-stuffy material and make it totally modern. Having lived in the capital for years, there are few people better equipped to reflect on Danish style and recommend a few places in the city to shop. “Danish people have a very specific way of dressing up. It has to be practical. We need to be able to ride a bike or pick up our children and go to work,” she tells Vogue. “I love these oversized dresses that women wear with sneakers. The Copenhagen fashion scene is very comfortable and yet elegant.” 

More recently, Bille Brahe will be unveiled a special new collection, Lettre de Lumière. Inspired by Inger Christensen’s short poems, the new collection is a series of simple letter rings, necklaces, and stud earrings inspired by signet rings. “For this collection, I had a very playful process of creation,” she says. “I used my handwriting as a starting point and from this, I wanted to create something almost magical that one could pass on from generation to generation.” A modern interpretation of the signet ring, the earrings are personal and heirloom-worthy without feeling stuffy. Is there a descriptor better in line with Scandi chic? 

Related: The 7 best vintage stores in Gothenburg

Should you be inspired to dive deeper into Scandinavian style, Bille Brahe recommends five stores to visit in Copenhagen below.

Time’s Up
"It’s a vintage store and they have the most amazing Chanel vests. The trick is to ask for the special ones in the backroom." 

Tage Andersen
"It’s my favourite floral museum and boutique in Copenhagen. It has a beautiful courtyard with a fountain. I have been going there ever since I was a child. My mum would take me there all the time. It’s a wonderful hidden gem with a great selection of flowers and objects."

Lot 29
"Here, I think you will find the best Copenhagen has to offer. It’s well-curated, with a colourful selection. I always buy Missoni socks and towels there."

Jægersborg Alle
"I live north of Copenhagen, in Hellerup. This street goes from the sea to the forest, and I love shopping there. Leah Maria has a great selection of clothes and jewellery."
 
Bredgade
"Sharing a corner with Nyhavn (the New Harbour), Bredgade is the best place to unearth antiques. The street is filled with auction houses and antique stores. It gives a perfect overview of Danish design over the centuries. That’s also where I found the Flora Danica service we use in the showroom. I simply love it."