For Danish brand mfpen, perfection is discretion

In the world of fashion, where publicity and extravagance often define the trajectory, Danish brand mfpen stands as a refreshing anomaly. Creative director Sigurd Bank built the brand on a philosophy that is both unconventional and compelling. Unlike many fashion brands chasing the limelight, he prefers to keep the brand «a bit in the shadows,» as he tells us. Despite this, you have probably encountered mfpen's designs at some point, a Danish native brand which has gained international recognition for its low-key aesthetics. A black sheep in the crowded fashion landscape, aside from their occasional collaborations and lookbooks, there's almost zero marketing in the brand's communication, a take on consumerism that is refreshing. As Bank sates, hype can create a «false feeling» of need, which is antithetical to what his brand stands for. Their products aren’t about being a temporary craze; they're about serving an enduring purpose.

While other brands are constantly working on becoming more sustainable, this is a core value for the brand, something that's been fundamentally embedded in their collections as they are built on deadstock fabrics. This means that most of mfpen’s pieces are limited editions, with production capped by the existing fabric supply. Bank initially kept the use of deadstock fabric a secret, since during the first years of the brand it hadn't received the beneficial status it holds today. The creative director prefers to think of it as exclusive material, pointing out their mastery in using what they have with minimal impact. Utilising the excessive amounts of high-end fabrics, mfpen creates clothes that are chic. Their loose silhouettes balance the dressed-up aesthetics but with their attention to detail, they cultivate a slight reference to post-punk. All resulting in highly wearable pieces. Describing mfpen without referring back to them becomes a paradox, enabled by their authenticity towards themselves. This authenticity is the cornerstone of mfpen, cultivating their existence and binding the brand together. Ultimately, their internal understanding of themselves is closely aligned with how consumers perceive them. Interviewing Bank was a meaningful interaction, simple and real, amplifying the perception of his brand. Trusting in their authenticity allows them to embrace a universe that isn’t perfect, nor is it meant to be. All lookbooks are shot on analog, and as Bank describes, it's the unpredictability and slight deviations that achieve perfection. This was also evident in their SS21 installation & film during Copenhagen Fashion Week, where the seemingly careless misbuttoning of shirts portrays character, adding a sense of authenticity that breathes life into their creations. Something we hope that will furthermore be visible in their upcoming show for Copenhagen Fashion Week for their FW24 collection.

As mfpen continues to evolve, they remain committed to their core values while embracing change. The upcoming fashion show, a blend of men's and women's collections, promises to be a reflection of the brand's ethos: embracing imperfection, acknowledging the uncontrolled, and transcending traditional gender norms in fashion. This approach is not just about being different for the sake of being different; it's about creating fashion that is real, relatable, and resonant with the times. mfpen stands as a testament to the power of authenticity, sustainability, and a clear vision in fashion. In a world often ruled by fleeting trends and manufactured hype, mfpen's commitment to timeless style, material honesty, and personal involvement offers a refreshing perspective on what fashion can and should be.