Christian Juul Nielsen’s Fall Winter 2025 collection for AKNVAS at New York Fashion Week redefined regal elegance with a rebellious streak. Fragmented Royalty drew inspiration from Danish princesses Alexandra, Dagmar, and Thyna, blending historical grandeur with a raw, modern sensibility.
Words by Sabrina Ciauri. Images by Katie Borrazzo courtesy of Aknvas.
Nielsen described how each princess shaped a distinct design narrative, merging classical influences with contemporary craftsmanship.
Alexandra: The Fragmented Royalty
A true style icon of her time, Alexandra’s legacy was reflected in garments that deconstructed and reassembled regal silhouettes. Fragments of corsetry and sharp tailoring reimagined monarchy for the present—where tradition meets self-expression.
Dagmar: The Ghost of the North
Dagmar’s Scandinavian heritage came to life through sumptuous faux furs—lynx, white fox, and other Nordic influences—evoking wintry landscapes and imperial grandeur. Layered textures wove nostalgia with quiet resilience, striking a balance between past and present.
Thyna: Nocturnal Ties
Fearless and unpredictable, Thyna embodied nocturnal rebellion. Her presence pulsed through dark, seductive fabrics and avant-garde cuts, embracing fluidity and bold self-expression. Elements of underground nightlife infused the collection’s most daring pieces, where edge met elegance.
A Defining Moment: AKNVAS Steps Into Evening Wear
Known for its elevated daywear, AKNVAS made a decisive move into evening wear this season. The finale piece—Nielsen’s personal favourite—marked this transition: a fluidly draped gown, free of buttons and zips, cinched only by two delicate straps and a bow at the back. This dress can be worn long or short, encapsulating an effortless approach to modern versatility.
The Future of AKNVAS
With rich hues, movement-driven silhouettes, and tactile textures, Nielsen envisioned this collection as a naïve fantasy—a world where aristocratic nostalgia meets unfiltered expression. This season also signalled AKNVAS’s growing focus on evening wear, particularly in the U.S., where demand for modern yet effortless formalwear continues to rise.
Material innovation remains key. Building on last season’s breakout faux furs—spotlighted by Kylie Jenner—AKNVAS continues to push boundaries, seamlessly integrating heritage craftsmanship with cutting-edge textile development.
With Fragmented Royalty, Nielsen cements his place as one of fashion’s most compelling storytellers—one who understands that history is not just to be honoured but to be reimagined, manipulated, and ultimately reshaped for the present.
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