We’re a few days removed from Copenhagen Fashion Week, but now that we’ve parsed through every single online image, there’s a surefire staple that everyone needs in their closet. Yes, the Copenhagen girlies have knighted camouflage as the new neutral and I’ve brought you proof.
Army fatigues have been around in the fashion space for years, of course. They have been beloved, discarded, and repurchased at the local thrift shop more times than I can count. Which is why they may seem like a controversial choice to anyone who isn’t sure where we are in that cycle. But, the women of Copenhagen have petitioned with their street style images to move us back to the beloved stage again. The sheer number of ladies currently blending in is overwhelming.
But, of important note: camo isn’t the statement it used to be. Instead, a touch of camouflage is simply a neutral—a fun cousin to denim and nude coloring. It’s muted tones make it truly easy to pair with pretty much anything, so yes, we’re likely to see this more and more in other parts of the world as well.
Scroll below for some examples to add to your moodboard.
Baggy Camo
This was one of the first Copenhagen moments I came across that confirmed camo was here in such a pared-back way. Normally, when you’re wearing a pair of printed pants like camouflage, you might simplify the patterns everywhere else. But not anymore. Camo is the base and add as many striped and checkered top layers as you’d like.
Bedazzled Camo
The fun part about this look is that it would work exactly the same if the pants were regular bedazzled blue denim jeans. But making them camo brings new life to the outfit.
Preppy Camo
Capris are the clear front-runner when it comes to how we’re wearing camo right now, but adding in this layered collared shirt moment with a simple heel is a perfect way into the more utilitarian and tomboy piece of clothing.
Camo Shoes
We’re getting real adventurous in Copenhagen. If you’re not interested in pants, why not try some camo-style shoes to tap into the trend.
Chic Camo
I know the internet has thoughts about chic, but when I think of the word, this look is exactly that. From the tabi ballet flats to the high-neck sweater and camouflage pants, this entire look has become my inspiration.
Bohemian Camo
If you want to have some fun with your camo, add in some lace and accessories that really lean into the bohemian aesthetic. Also, extra points for the toe loop sandal heels.
Cottagecore Camo
If there’s a way to add a bit of flair, leaning into an top, like this one, with your very neutral camouflage shorts is the way to do it.
Tenniscore Camo
Another simple way to rock the new trend is with a vibrant contrasting sweater and a simple tennis shoe.
Glam Camo
Another version of the look right above with the contrasting yellow, but the heel makes for a very high-fashion moment, right?
Cool-Girl Camo
For the adventurous girlies who want to tap into this trend, try putting the camouflage piece as your top layer to really dive in.
Laid-Back Camo
Whether you’re running errands or meeting the girls for dinner, using a textured pair of camouflage pants like this with a simple wedged heel and t-shirt is a relaxed, yet still super fashionable way to go for the new neutral.
Full-Set Camo
When in doubt, wear a full set. It’s easy and stylish without being overpowering. Having the look feature shorts instead of traditional pants also elevates the overall vibe.
Aiyana Ishmael is the style editor at Cosmopolitan magazine. In her work, Aiyana focuses on the culture of fashion and how it intertwines and shapes the zeitgeist. She is an award-winning journalist from Miami, Florida, and a graduate of the historically Black university, Florida A&M. She is a 2024 Forbes 30 Under 30: Media honoree, and her debut romance novella PASSING GAME is set to release March of 2027 (831 Stories/Simon & Schuster).
