Photography by Tim Sonntag.
Sun. Crisp Copenhagen air. A palpable buzz of anticipation. Inside the Bella Center from January 28th to 30th, an eclectic mix of creatives, designers, and trendsetters gathered at CIFF’s 64th edition, where the spotlight shone on NEUDEUTSCH – a daring display of German design that defied convention.
After the memorable success of its Summer 2024 debut, NEUDEUTSCH returned to Copenhagen with even bolder ambitions. Curated by Julian Daynov – a name now synonymous with forward-thinking fashion – the collective transformed over 1,000 square meters into a playground of ideas. More than 30 talents from fashion, jewelry, interior design, beauty, art, and even nutrition came together, each piece challenging the tired stereotype of German design as merely utilitarian.
Daynov wasn’t just putting together an exhibition; he was sparking a conversation. “What I’m presenting isn’t just a collection of impressive works,” he explained, “but a dialogue between multiple cultural influences and a new generation of creatives redefining German design.” His vision shattered old narratives, proving that German aesthetics can be as dynamic and diverse as the culture they spring from.
MIDDLE Julian Daynov photographed by Georgi Andilov LEFT AND RIGHT Photography by Tim Sonntag.
Photography by Tim Sonntag
CIFF has long evolved from a traditional trade fair into a melting pot of creativity and commerce – a true cultural hub for Northern Europe. Since its inception in 1993, the event has grown into one of the fashion calendar’s most anticipated rendezvous, drawing in more than 1,000 brands and 17,000 visitors per season. As CIFF’s CEO, Sofie Dolva, pointed out, “Germany is one of our most important markets. Our collaboration with Julian Daynov and NEUDEUTSCH embodies the innovative spirit of Copenhagen and sets the stage for a global design dialogue.”
The innovative craftsmanship ranged from Uncommon Matters’ sculptural jewelry to Raer Scents’ fresh take on sustainable fragrances. There was the minimalist yet striking aesthetic of Black Palms, the modern sophistication of Lutz Morris, and the boundary-pushing beauty concepts of Kess.
One standout was Haus Harder. Founded by Nico Harder during his studies at Parsons, the brand channels German precision and cultural heritage into modern, sustainable pieces that reimagine tomorrow’s uniform with a “less but better” philosophy. Nico loves to play with surfaces, coatings, and fabrics, creating innovative garments that merge traditional tailoring with contemporary design.
Photography by Tim Sonntag.
Another highlight came from Nthirtythree, the artisan-made headwear brand. Founded in southern Germany, Nthirtythree crafts fine, high-quality hats in a small family-owned Italian manufactory, blending classic elegance with a progressive, sustainable spirit– each hat is a testament to genuine craftsmanship and the enduring touch of luck in the number 33.
At its core, NEUDEUTSCH was a celebration of reinvention. Daynov’s career – spanning roles as a fashion director, buyer, trend analyst, and brand strategist – has always been about breaking molds. His knack for capturing the pulse of modern design, while pushing past traditional gender norms, made his curatorial work resonate deeply with the global audience.
In a world where German design is often reduced to practicality, NEUDEUTSCH at CIFF invited us to witness the beauty of transformation. It was a movement reimagining what design could be – vibrant, inclusive, and ever-evolving, just like Copenhagen itself: For those who were there, the fair left no doubt: the future of German design had arrived, challenging conventions and inspiring change.