What to Pack for Summer in Copenhagen: My Dream Shopping List

By Kim BrowneJuly 12, 2025

There’s something about Copenhagen in the summer that has completely overtaken my imagination (even though I haven’t yet experienced it firsthand). Maybe it’s the soft coastal breeze or the way everyone looks like they’ve just stepped out of a low-key editorial shoot while riding their bikes. The vibe is equal parts polished and playful—never trying too hard, but always looking just right.

Lately, I’ve found myself mentally packing a suitcase for a trip I haven’t booked (yet), dreaming up the outfits I’d wear for everything from coffee at Atelier September to sunset walks along the canal. This list isn’t about staples—I’m assuming you’ve already got those down. These are the fun, specific pieces I’d want to reach for in the moment: things that feel a little extra but still wearable, that help me blend in just enough while still feeling like myself.

1. PASTEL BUTTON-DOWNS

Pastel button-downs are my summer version of a light jacket. They’re crisp, oversize, and in shades that feel like sorbet. Copenhagen girls like to throw one over a tank and shorts, or tie it around my waist until the breeze picks up.

COS

Oversized Linen Shirt

Wilfred

Relaxed Linen Shirt

j.crew

Étienne Oversized Shirt in Lightweight Oxford

2. LACE MOMENTS

Lace always adds that little something, like you’re dressing for a picnic in a Jane Austen remake, but in the best way. You’ll score bonus points with Copenhagen girls if you choose one in pastel and style it with pieces that feel a bit undone, layered over basics, or styled with sporty shoes.

Bananhot

Cotton and Brocade Lace Minidress

Dissh

Lizzie White Lace Cap Sleeve Top

3. FUN HATS

Whether or not you’re a hat person, you can’t get away from the lore that is 2025’s obsession. Whether it’s a pillbox hat or a raffia bucket moment, not only will they protect you from the sun, but they’ll also look good doing it. My favorite way to hide a second-day hair situation in a pinch.

Gap

Striped Straw Bucket Hat

GIGI BURRIS

Claiborne Grosgrain-Trimmed Straw Sunhat

4. OPTICAL ILLUSION

There’s something about wearing opticals these days that makes even a white tee feel stylish. I lean into unexpected shapes, unique lenses, or anything that makes me feel a little bit like a model off-duty.

MIU MIU

Rectangular-Frame Tortoiseshell Acetate Optical Glasses

Vontélle

Black Nile Sunglasses

Tiffany & Co.

56mm Oval Optical Glasses

5. YOUTHFUL POPLIN

Poplin is one of those materials that always looks crisp, even when you’re not trying. I love it in punchy, playful silhouettes that feel equal parts grown-up and girly. The type of matching sets you’d want your future baby to wear now works as an adult, too.

Minkpink

Evelyn Bubble Top

Petal & Pup

Luna Strapless Peplum Top & Skirt Set

6. TRACK SHORTS

These aren’t just for workouts—they’re also for iced coffee walks, gallery visits, and lounging in the grass. Copenhagen girls style theirs with a tailored top or a slouchy sweater for that sporty-meets-polished balance.

Urban Outfitters

Bdg Star Player Athletic Short

adidas

Adicolor 3-Stripes Sprinter Shorts

Area

Crystal Trim Track Shorts

7. SCARF BELTS

Scarves are taking over this summer, but not how you’d think. This styling trick feels like a summer in Copenhagen with zero effort. Loop one around a dress or wear it over linen pants to make things more interesting.

Dries Van Noten

Felicia Floral Sequined Fringe Scarf

COS

Pointelle-Knit Triangle Scarf

Alemais

Court Printed Silk Scarf

8. LAYERED TEES & TANKS

Layering a tank over a tee scratches that Miu Miu itch in a way that somehow feels surprisingly Scandinavian. It’s a low-stakes way to play with proportions and color without doing much at all. Get creative with what you have or purchase some basics that look crazy good together.