Bonnetje's latest collection for Fall 2026 marks a significant evolution for the brand, as designers Yoko Maja Hansen and Anna Myntekær refined their signature deconstructionist aesthetic. Moving away from traditional runway shows, they opted for a presentation format to better convey their intricate techniques and conceptual approach to garments. This season, the duo delved into their archives and drew inspiration from the 'Surreal on Paper' exhibition, mirroring the Surrealists' 'exquisite corpse' method in their collaborative design process. The result is a collection that blends exaggerated tailoring with imaginative accessories, pushing the boundaries of ready-to-wear fashion with a distinctive, artistic vision.
Bonnetje Unveils Fall 2026 Collection with Surrealist Flair at Copenhagen Fashion Week
Copenhagen, Denmark – In a captivating move for the Fall 2026 season, the innovative design duo Yoko Maja Hansen and Anna Myntekær, the creative minds behind Bonnetje, presented their latest collection in a unique exhibition format. This decision, a departure from their previous runway presentations, marked their third and final season as part of Copenhagen Fashion Week's (CPHFW) esteemed NewTalent program. The designers' core philosophy, which revolves around the meticulous deconstruction of men's formal wear infused with a subtle "kink" or subversive element, truly shone through in this refined offering.
Maja Hansen and Myntekær, known for their focus on construction and fabric manipulation rather than a linear narrative, explored new dimensions this season. Their inspiration notably stemmed from a recent visit to Copenhagen's SMK museum, where the "Surreal on Paper" exhibition captivated them. The designers recognized a profound connection between the Surrealists' collaborative "exquisite corpse" technique and their own symbiotic design process. As Myntekær elucidated, their method involves one designer initiating a garment, passing it on to the other for further development, and then receiving it back for final touches – a modern interpretation of the Surrealist game.
The collection itself is a testament to this iterative and experimental approach. Repetition emerged as a dominant theme, seen in a skirt ingeniously crafted from numerous shirt cuffs, forming an intricate openwork textile. A long dress echoed this motif, with overlapped cuffs arranged vertically. Tailoring was reimagined with dramatic exaggeration, featuring pannier-like shapes that subtly referenced historical fashion silhouettes, reminiscent of the opulent styles favored by figures like Marie Antoinette.
Beyond the garments, the accessories were a highlight, showcasing Bonnetje's flair for innovation. Footwear, in particular, drew attention: some shoes were playfully adorned with dozens of plastic keychains, creating a whimsical, percussive sound with every step. Additionally, boots fashioned from upcycled bags demonstrated the brand's commitment to sustainable and creative material use. While these were undoubtedly show-stopping pieces, industry observers note Bonnetje's innate talent for crafting distinctive accessories, suggesting a potential future for this category as a significant growth area for the brand, especially with strategic partnerships.
Bonnetje's Fall 2026 collection stands as a compelling demonstration of artistic evolution and intellectual curiosity in fashion. By consciously choosing a presentation format and deeply engaging with the principles of Surrealism, Hansen and Myntekær not only delivered a visually striking collection but also invited a deeper appreciation for the intricate craftsmanship and conceptual underpinnings of their work. This thoughtful approach highlights the power of collaboration and unexpected inspirations in shaping contemporary design narratives.