Features Special Section: NYFW

Christian Juul Nielsen Debuts his Spring/Summer 2025 Collection for Aknvas

Photo courtesy of Aknvas

Aknvas was founded in 2019 by Danish designer Christian Juul Nielsen. This emerging designer brand focuses on thoughtful, well-designed and innovative clothing for discerning and dynamic women and men. Clients can expect luxury level products designed to move seamlessly from day to evening, with a focus on drape, flattering silhouettes, innovative knits and an elevated palette. Drawing from Nielsen’s previous roles at Dior and Oscar de la Renta, the brand incorporates design techniques from his time designing couture gowns with each garment crafted with a similar attention to detail.

The collection, entitled Nordic Midsummer Camp, transports us to the whimsical yet adventurous essence of a Nordic summer, blending nostalgia with modern sensibility. Built around the notion of youthful exploration and nature’s serene beauty, the collection unfolds in three distinct chapters (“Urban Scout,” “Monochromatic Flower Fields” and “Radiant Dew”), each telling a unique story that captures the essence of midsummer. Key looks include signature denim and canvas workwear- inspired jackets, delicate floral appliques on tops and shimmering sequined embroidered dresses.

The collection contains looks for men and women, accompanied by the brand’s first handbag offerings. “I wanted to create a bag that fits the ready to wear Aknvas girl. Feminine and functional that goes from day to evening,” says Nielsen. The miniature bags will be available for spring in a wide array of pastel and neutral shades.

The runway show also continued a continued partnership with Stuart Weitzman for the women’s shoes. The global luxury footwear brand premiered their Emerson Capsule Collection, a range of moto-inspired silhouettes defined by It-Girl energy and lug soles, on the runway in a see now-buy now capacity. “I wanted to work with Stuart Weitzman because their craftsmanship perfectly aligns with the Aknvas vision – creating luxury clothes and footwear that empower women,” says Nielsen. “Their EMERSON capsule collection embodies the strength, confidence and boldness I envisioned for my runway collection.” Men’s footwear was provided by Kenner. Additional support for the runway show was provided by The Travel Agency.

Notable attendees at the show included: Jenna Lyons, Meredith Marks, Lisa Barlow, Erin Lichy, Kat Graham, James Charles, Whitney Port and Julia Cumming.