The forever closet
Elevating timeless basics with unique detailing, By Malene Birger has teamed up with NET-A-PORTER on an exclusive capsule collection of chic closet essentials made from eco-friendly materials
The rise of Scandi style has been one of the most defining trends of the last decade. As we step into the 2020s, its sleek, clean-lined, cozy and timeless attributes look set to become an even bigger focus as the importance of building a capsule wardrobe of luxe, wear-forever pieces with eco credentials becomes an even greater priority.
With exactly this aim in mind, cult Danish brand By Malene Birger has teamed up with NET-A-PORTER on an exclusive capsule collection of chic closet essentials made from eco-friendly materials. The face of the collection is Moldavian-British model Doina Ciobanu, who is an impassioned advocate for sustainable fashion. Modeling the collection here, Doina shows how these pieces are seasonless yet fashion-forward, and trend-aware but endlessly elegant.
Using top-quality materials that will last for seasons to come, the collection incorporates GOTS-certified organic cotton and responsibly sourced wool. The oversized gray alpaca and merino wool-blend turtleneck and luxe biscuit-colored V-neck knit are the type of sumptuous pieces that you can wrap yourself up in on the weekend and style with the cream-colored, straight-leg organic jeans and cool ankle boots by day. Simply swap in ’90s-style mules and a swipe of red lipstick to elevate the look for evening.
A great denim shirt is the ultimate forever piece, and the version in this collection has a vintage Victoriana vibe, making it an infinitely versatile day-to-night piece. Wear it with the matching mini skirt and a pair of kitten heels for a cool after-dark look. Directional dressers will love the knee-length denim coat which can be transformed into a dress when paired with slouchy over-the-knee boots – go bold and opt for a pop of color to create a graphic contrast.
According to By Malene Birger Creative Director Mathilde Torp Mader, the collection is inspired by natural elements, which is instantly evident in the earthy cornflower blue pieces. Those living in a warmer climate, or with a beachside vacation on the horizon, will appreciate the throw-on-and-go ease of the puff-sleeved dress. It is exactly the kind of beach-to-bar piece that you can wear with flat sandals by day before adding statement earrings for a night of dancing until sunrise. The bohemian blouson-sleeved blouse has a similar day-to-night ease that makes it the perfect packing ally for keeping your suitcase light.
When Malene Birger established her eponymous brand over 15 years ago, her aim was to create contemporary clothes for women who value true style. Since taking the helm in 2017, Torp Mader has nurtured this philosophy with her thoughtful and ultra-chic aesthetic. The Copenhagen native studied fashion at London’s esteemed Central Saint Martins, graduating in 2006, and continues to reside the trend-savvy city, dividing her time between her London studio and Copenhagen HQ. This peripatetic approach no doubt influences her design eye, inspiring her to create classic pieces with distinctive detailing that are perennially chic.