Cecilie Bahnsen and The North Face are spotlighting the intricacies of nature and couture in their debut collection, nurturing a space in which they seamlessly merge into one.
Founded in 2015, Cecilie Bahnsen’s eponymous label explores femininity through its Scandinavian roots, executing voluptuous silhouettes with a minimal twist. Shaped by her time spent working with couture houses in Paris, Bahnsen integrates traditional methods into each of her designs, lending focus to high-quality textiles, durability and craftsmanship. Playfulness, too, is a core element of the Copenhagen artist’s vision, adopting a collaborative energy that bounces new ideas between like-minded creatives.
Today, Cecilie Bahnsen reflects on The North Face’s statement tag-line ‘Never Stop Exploring’ and ventures into the bucolic Fontainblueau landscape, trialling out seven, unique pieces alongside the outerwear brands’ leading athletes. Over a series of matte-black bags, jackets and footwear, the campaign captures each model in action, featuring 2024 Olympic silver medalist Brooke Raboutou, 2020 Olympic commentator, five-time UK national climbing champion Molly Thompson-Smith and pro climber Solenne Piret, as they mount boulders and trudge through spells of drizzle.
The collaboration also writes an ode to the late Ingrid Harshbarger, who envisioned the first Mountain Dress and formed part of The North Face’s original design team. Now, Harshabrger’s work is interpreted with a romantic edge, upholding its practical purpose whilst integrating Cecilie’s classic motifs, from each 3D flower appilqué to the label’s airy movement and scalloped hems.
First teased during her SS25 runway show, Cecilie Bahnsen illustrates her own relationship with the collaboration: “I’ve always loved how women around the world wear my designs in their own way, and this collaboration builds on that spirit.” She continues, “The North Face’s technical expertise not only complements my designs but elevates how it’s lived in—effortless, functional, and ready for every day.”
Conceived in 1966, The North Face has continuously proven itself as a vessel for adventure, created for those who are ready to step into the unknown. This latest collection is testament to the brand’s couragious spirit, and will be available on Thursday 13th March via select retail stores, thenorthface.com and ceciliebahnsen.com.
