With a growing reputation for outstanding design, Danish fashion labels continue to make news (and buyer's lists), especially on the heels of just passed Copenhagen Fashion Week. One of those talents is Vibe Johansson, a designer with an avant garde approach to draping, which allows for innovative ways to wear the same item.

Paper-Doll: How did you get into fashion design?
Vibe Johansson: I was always interested in fashion, ever since I was a child, and my dream was always the same; being creative. I started my label quite by accident though, while I studied fashion, my plan was to wait until I finished school and maybe had gotten some work experience, but I couldn’t wait and when I got a chance I took it.

What is the first thing you designed (personally or professionally)?
I started making unique pieces for a store in my hometown while I was in high school.

When did you launch your own label?
I have been doing small collections and projects since 2006, but first official collection was for fall/winter 2008. The current spring/summer collection is my 4th.

What inspires you / your work?
Shapes in nature and architecture, and the contrasts of these.

Describe your SS’10 Collection.
Very feminine and floaty compared to my usual work, but I believe in progress and trying new things and it has been well received.

What is your favourite piece from your SS’10 Collection?
(Pictured above). The jersey cape that can be used in so many different ways, since it has buckles that the wearer can use for their own draping ideas and effects.

Did you have a personal soundtrack or a favourite album that you listened to while working on SS’10? Mother Mother, “Oh my heart” and a lot of Nine Inch Nails.

What area of your work do you enjoy the most?
Definitely the process of designing a new collection, and experimenting with fabrics and shapes.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
The fashion industry is quite confusing and a lot of people try to give you advice and push you in different directions. I have finally learned not to listen to every piece of good advice, but really follow my instincts on what to do next.

What is the most surprising thing that has happened to you as a designer?
The response to my designs is always a bit surprising as I never really know what to expect after working on a collection for months in complete loneliness. It’s a big relief when it’s finally over, and the reactions are positive.

How would you describe your own personal style?
Always black and layered.

What is your favourite item in your personal wardrobe?
My Helmut Lang cocktail dress that I got on sale.

Where do you shop for clothes when you're not wearing your own?
I don’t really have money for shopping, so mostly I trade a styles with other designer-friends, and that way we all stay updated even if we are broke… It’s a good solution, as I do get tired of wearing my own stuff…

What is on your current fashion wishlist?
Leather jacket from Haider Ackermann, or Rick Owens boots..

What fashion trend would you not be caught dead in?
Boheme…

What is the one item that every woman should have in her closet?
A perfect all seasons black biker leather jacket.

What is your favourite thing about the city you live in?
Copenhagen is a small city, and it is possible to go to any part of it within 20 minutes on your bike. No need for cars.

If you couldn’t be a fashion designer, what other area of interest would you like to explore?
I would really like to study psychology.

What is next for your label?
Right now we are entering some interesting new markets, like USA and Asia. That is very exciting... As for the designs I never really know what I am gonna do next, before I’m in the middle of it. I try not to plan too much, I like to keep all options open, and just keep experimenting.

Visit: Vibe Johansson